India coach Gautam Gambhir sharply criticized his batters after their collapse in the first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens.
Chasing 124 on a turning yet playable pitch, India were bowled out for 93, handing the Proteas a 30-run win. Gambhir blamed technique, temperament, and mental toughness rather than the surface, highlighting Washington Sundar’s 31 as the only notable effort against Simon Harmer’s 4-21. South Africa captain Temba Bavuma’s resilient 55* guided his team to victory. Injuries, including Shubman Gill’s neck issue, compounded India’s woes.
Gambhir stressed that Test cricket demands more than skill—mental resilience is key.