Concerns Arise Over India's Batting Strategy in Test Against South Africa

In the ongoing Test match between India and South Africa, concerns have been raised about India's batting strategy after a disappointing first innings. Former captain Ravi Shastri has criticized the team's frequent changes in the batting order, particularly the handling of players like Washington Sundar and Sai Sudharsan. Despite a partnership between Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav that added crucial runs, India's total of 201 runs fell short against South Africa's impressive 489. As questions arise regarding the team's selection and strategy, a review of these decisions seems imperative in the days ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 25, 2025, 23:41 IST

India's Struggles in the First Innings

A significant discussion has emerged regarding the Test match between India and South Africa in Guwahati. Reports indicate that India's batting lineup faltered once again in their first innings, prompting former captain and head coach Ravi Shastri to criticize the team's batting strategy.

Recently, India has been experimenting with the number three batting position. In the first Test, Washington Sundar was surprisingly promoted to this spot, catching everyone off guard. In the subsequent match, Sai Sudharsan returned and was placed back at number three, while Sundar was dropped down to number eight. Notably, this strategy did not yield positive results, as India managed only 201 runs in their first innings, while South Africa established a commanding lead with 489 runs.

During commentary on a major sports network, Ravi Shastri expressed that the team's approach appears unclear. He remarked, 'This decision is baffling. By the end of this series, the management will likely be astonished by their own selections. In Kolkata, you played four spinners, yet one bowled only a single over when an extra batsman was needed. Here, you sent Washington to bat at number three in the last match, and now suddenly he’s at number eight, despite being a better batsman.'

Despite the numerous changes, Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav managed to form a crucial partnership, adding 72 runs for the eighth wicket to stabilize the innings. After India lost their seventh wicket at 122 runs, the duo worked together to push the score past 200. Sundar scored 48 runs off 92 balls, while Kuldeep contributed a gritty 19 runs from 134 balls.

On the bowling front, Marco Jansen excelled for South Africa, taking six wickets, while Simon Harmer added three more, further complicating India's situation.

Current circumstances indicate that there are numerous questions surrounding India's batting order and selection, making it essential to review these decisions in the coming days.