Ahead of the Ranchi ODI, stand-in captain KL Rahul delivered a candid assessment of India’s recent Test struggles, especially their inability to dominate spin — once considered the team’s strongest suit. Rahul said today’s batters aren't playing spin as confidently as earlier generations and stressed that the team is willing to seek guidance from former greats, including Sunil Gavaskar.
Speaking to the media before the first ODI against South Africa, Rahul acknowledged that India must confront the issue honestly and find tailored solutions. His comments follow India’s 0–2 Test series defeat to South Africa, including a collapse on a turning track in Kolkata where Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj outperformed Indian bowlers.
India failed to chase 124 in the first Test, bowled out for just 93 — their lowest-ever fourth-innings total at home. Harmer was the series standout, taking 17 wickets, seven more than India’s best performer, Ravindra Jadeja.
Rahul admitted he doesn’t have clear answers on why the current lineup struggles compared to former Indian batters renowned for their mastery against spin. However, he emphasised that players must individually figure out their technical gaps and improve.
Pointing to his own dismissal in Guwahati — bowled by Harmer while attempting a risky cross-batted shot — Rahul said he regretted the execution and accepted that players must take responsibility for repeated errors.
With India set to play a Test series in Sri Lanka next August followed by a blockbuster five-Test home series against Australia in 2027, Rahul said the team will actively reach out to seniors for technical guidance and mentorship.
The loss to South Africa pushed India to No. 5 in the World Test Championship standings. With nine Tests remaining, India must win a majority to keep their qualification hopes alive. Declining proficiency against spin has been a growing concern, with even senior batters like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane struggling in recent years.
In 2024, New Zealand’s spinners Mitchell Santner and Ajaz Patel powered a historic 3–0 Test whitewash in India — a rare feat that further highlighted the team’s ongoing vulnerabilities.
Rahul reiterated that improvement will take time but assured that players are determined to address the issue before the next WTC cycle intensifies.
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