Gambhir says linking every loss to NZ Tests creates a misleading storyline
The head coach, after India's 2-0 home defeat to South Africa, was at pains to stress that today's Test side is in a different phase altogether and cannot be compared to the unit that faced New Zealand
Why the NZ comparison doesn’t hold
Gautam Gambhir explained that the current Test set-up of India is going through a sea change and has little resemblance to the side that played against New Zealand. Many of their present top-order and middle-order batsmen have played less than 15 Tests, which makes them far less experienced compared to some of the earlier set-ups of this side. Among those, a few youngsters are still learning the art of adjusting to the format and, therefore, developing through real match conditions.
He explained further that the core of this team has drastically changed with seniors moving away and different roles being given to various departments, which also includes a different batting order and new spin combinations. For all this reshaping, Gambhir feels it is unfair to evaluate the side by benchmarks set by earlier line-ups that were substantially different and more experienced. He further said that expecting error-free performances against a strong South African team is oblivious to the fact that this is a developing team.
Gambhir also sought understanding, not criticism, saying the present phase is not about defending losses but accepting rebuilding takes time. Young players will take time to settle down; they will commit mistakes and then slowly get used to the pressure of international cricket.
And so, with India regrouping after the series setback, Gambhir’s core message remains firm: instead of drawing parallels with past failures, the focus should shift toward supporting this emerging unit as it works towards long-term stability and success.
