Cheteshwar Pujara Challenges Gautam Gambhir's Comments on Eden Gardens Pitch

In a recent discussion, Cheteshwar Pujara countered Gautam Gambhir's remarks about the Eden Gardens pitch, asserting that it posed significant challenges for Indian batsmen. Following South Africa's victory, Pujara emphasized the need for players to adapt to turning pitches. Gambhir, however, defended the pitch conditions, suggesting they were favorable for the Indian team. This exchange highlights the ongoing debate about pitch suitability in cricket and the expectations of players in varying conditions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 18, 2025, 16:01 IST

Pujara Disputes Gambhir's Assessment of Pitch Conditions

Former Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara has refuted the claims made by head coach Gautam Gambhir regarding the Eden Gardens pitch, stating that it was not conducive for batting. After failing to chase down a target of 124 runs in the fourth innings, South Africa secured a 30-run victory. Simon Harmer emerged as the standout bowler for the visiting team, taking eight wickets across both innings. This win marked South Africa's first Test victory in India since 2010, as Indian batsmen struggled against the South African spinners.

Pujara's Perspective on Batting Challenges

In a conversation with a media outlet, Pujara expressed that while Gambhir might prefer such conditions for the Indian team, batting on that surface was exceptionally challenging. He disagreed with Gambhir's assertion that the pitch did not contribute to the struggles of Indian batsmen, noting that apart from Temba Bavuma, no player managed to score fifty runs. Pujara emphasized that Indian batsmen appeared ill-prepared for the turning pitches.

Adapting to Spin-Friendly Conditions

Pujara elaborated that on turning pitches, batsmen need to select different types of shots to keep the scoreboard ticking, often requiring more sweeps and a positive mindset. He pointed out that since India typically favors spin-friendly surfaces, the batsmen should adjust their preparations accordingly, rather than expecting standard batting-friendly conditions.

Gambhir's Take on the Pitch

Following the loss in the first Test in Kolkata, Gambhir remarked that the pitch was not as difficult as perceived. He mentioned that the curator of Eden Gardens had provided a track that suited the Indian team's needs. Gambhir stated that the pitch was exactly what they had requested, and he felt the curator was very accommodating. After the match concluded in just three days, several cricket analysts criticized the pitch, noting that many batsmen struggled against the spinners.