IND vs SA 2025: 3 changes India should make to return to winning ways in second Test

India suffered a disappointing 30-run defeat against South Africa in the first Test at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, slipping to a 1-0 deficit in the two-match series. The hosts struggled to counter South Africa’s disciplined spin attack and crumbled while attempting to accelerate the scoring rate. With the series on the line and the next Test in Guwahati, India must reflect on their mistakes and make tactical adjustments. Here are three crucial changes India should consider to bounce back and level the series.

Reduce the number of spinners

India fielded four frontline spinners, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Axar Patel, in the opening Test. While having multiple spin options can be advantageous in home conditions, the over-reliance on spin backfired as the attack lacked variety. South Africa’s batters adapted well, and India struggled to apply pressure consistently. For the second Test, India should drop at least one spinner and bring in a specialist pacer to create a more balanced attack. A seam option would not only offer variation with the new ball but also help control phases of play when the spinners fail to extract assistance from the pitch.

Reinforce the top order with specialist batters

A surprising tactical decision in the first Test was sending Washington Sundar to bat at No. 3, a role traditionally reserved for a technically solid top-order batter. Although Sundar showed commendable application, the responsibility eventually weighed him down. In Guwahati, India should restore stability by selecting a specialist top-order batter such as Sai Sudharsan or Devdutt Padikkal. This would allow Sundar to return to a lower-middle-order role, where he can face older balls and play more freely. Strengthening the top order will help India build partnerships, absorb pressure, and lay the foundation for competitive totals.

Build long innings and apply scoreboard pressure

India’s downfall in Kolkata was their inability to bat for long periods. Impatience led to rash shots, giving momentum to the Proteas. For the second Test, batters must focus on time in the middle, rotating strike, leaving well, and constructing partnerships. Long innings not only wear down the opposition attack but also create scoreboard pressure, forcing mistakes. A disciplined batting approach will be key to regaining control and putting South Africa on the back foot.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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