India’s longstanding reputation as an impregnable force in home Test cricket has undergone a dramatic collapse, with two devastating series defeats within twelve months signaling the end of an era. The recent 2-0 whitewash by South Africa, following New Zealand’s 3-0 triumph late last year, has shattered the aura of invincibility that once surrounded the Indian team on home soil.
The transition phase following the retirement of batting icons Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, along with spin maestro Ravichandran Ashwin, has exposed significant vulnerabilities in the squad. Commentary legend Harsha Bhogle observed on social media platform X: ‘There was an aura around the Indian team when playing in India. You can see it disappearing in the distance.’
Most alarming has been the reversal of India’s traditional spin dominance. South African off-spinner Simon Harmer’s remarkable 17-wicket haul across two tests demonstrated how visiting teams have turned India’s greatest weapon against them. The batting lineup appears particularly fragile against spin bowling, with only Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ravindra Jadeja managing half-centuries throughout the entire series.
The team’s struggles have triggered visible fan discontent, with head coach Gautam Gambhir facing booing from spectators in Guwahati after India’s fifth defeat in their last seven home tests. Indian media captured the mood with headlines declaring ‘Once lions at home, now lambs to the slaughter.’
Despite the crisis, captain Shubman Gill struck an optimistic note, stating: ‘Calm seas don’t teach you how to steer, it’s the storm that forges steady hands. We’ll continue to believe in each other, fight for each other, and move forward – rising stronger.’ His comments suggest the team recognizes the magnitude of the challenge ahead as they attempt to rebuild their formidable home reputation.