India head coach Gautam Gambhir has emphasized the need for more bounce and carry on Indian pitches, following India’s hard-fought seven-wicket win over West Indies in the second Test. The team spent 200 overs across both West Indies innings, highlighting the challenge for bowlers on suboptimal surfaces.
After last year’s 3-0 defeat to New Zealand, India is moving away from slow, turning tracks toward pitches that offer a more balanced contest between bat and ball. While India amassed substantial first-innings totals in both Tests against West Indies, the bowlers faced difficulties taking 20 wickets in Delhi, especially after enforcing the follow-on.
“I thought we could have had a better wicket here,” Gambhir said post-match. “There needs to be something for fast bowlers as well. It is okay if there isn’t enough turn, but there has to be carry. The lack of carry was a bit concerning, and going forward, we hope to prepare better pitches to keep Test cricket alive.”
Gambhir also praised West Indies for their resilience in the second innings, noting that their fightback reflects positively on the team’s future.
Shubman Gill, who led India to a 2-2 draw in England in his first Test series as captain, continued his impressive form at home. Gambhir lauded Gill’s leadership and work ethic, stating, “No one has done him a favor by appointing him Test or ODI captain. He has worked hard, demonstrates the right attitude, and leads by example. The team’s response to him has been outstanding, and he has done phenomenally well.”
Looking ahead, India prepares for a white-ball tour of Australia before returning home for a full series against South Africa, including Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. Gambhir stressed the importance of domestic cricket, such as Ranji Trophy and India A matches, to help players stay match-ready amid constant format changes.
