In a cricketing upset that has reverberated through the sport’s community, New Zealand not only clinched a series victory in India but also ended India’s formidable home streak of 4331 days without a series defeat. This monumental shift in cricketing fortunes was largely orchestrated by the Kiwi spinners, who bamboozled the Indian batting lineup, with Mitchell Santner emerging as the series’ standout performer. His 13-wicket haul in the second Test was instrumental in New Zealand’s 2-0 series triumph, a series that will be remembered for the Indian team’s uncharacteristic struggles against spin, pointed out by Sanjay Manjrekar
Sanjay Manjrekar, a former Indian cricketer known for his candid commentary, did not shy away from dissecting the performance of India’s young batting sensation, Shubman Gill. Manjrekar’s analysis was particularly critical of Gill’s approach against spinners, highlighting what he perceives as a significant weakness in the young batsman’s game. “When Yashasvi and Shubman were going together, I thought that there would be a surprise around the corner. Shubman Gill clearly does not have the feel for spinners. Batters who can work with their footwork instinctively, he clearly is under pressure when he is playing spinners on turning pitches,” Sanjay Manjrekar told ESPNcricinfo. This observation came after Gill was dismissed by Santner in both innings of the second Test, underscoring a pattern of discomfort against quality spin bowling.
The series, which saw New Zealand win the first Test by 8 wickets and the second by 113 runs, was not just a testament to their bowling prowess but also exposed the vulnerabilities in India’s batting against spin, especially on pitches that offered turn and bounce. Manjrekar’s critique extended beyond Gill, noting that three out of the top four Indian batters appeared uncomfortable against spin. This revelation is particularly concerning given India’s reputation for producing world-class spinners and playing on spin-friendly tracks.
The Indian team, traditionally seen as masters of spin, found themselves outplayed by New Zealand’s strategy and execution. The Kiwi spinners, led by Santner, exploited the conditions better than their Indian counterparts, turning the narrative of the series on its head. This series loss has sparked a debate on the readiness of Indian batsmen for international conditions, especially when the ball turns square.
As the cricketing world digests this unexpected outcome, Manjrekar’s comments serve as a wake-up call for the Indian cricket management. The need for technical adjustments, particularly in footwork and shot selection against spin, has never been more apparent. Gill, with his immense potential, stands at a crossroads where his approach against spinners could define his future in Test cricket.
New Zealand’s victory marks a historic achievement, it also casts a spotlight on the developmental areas for the Indian team. The series has provided valuable lessons, not just in terms of strategy and selection but also in the mental and technical preparation required to face quality spin bowling. As India looks to bounce back, the focus will undoubtedly be on addressing these weaknesses, ensuring that the next time they face a challenge of this magnitude, they are better equipped to turn the tide in their favor. The cricketing landscape has shifted, and with it, the expectations and preparations for the Indian cricket team will need to evolve.
