India's World Test Championship (WTC) campaign has suffered a significant setback following a shocking 30-run defeat to South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This loss has resulted in India slipping to fourth place in the WTC 2025-27 standings. The defeat is particularly stinging as it occurred on home soil and marks South Africa's first Test win in India in 15 years.
The low-scoring match saw India struggling to chase a modest target of 123, collapsing for just 93 runs. The pitch at Eden Gardens, offering sharp turn and inconsistent bounce, proved to be a significant challenge for the Indian batsmen. South African bowler Simon Harmer was named Player of the Match, having taken eight wickets in the Test.
This defeat is India's third in the current WTC cycle, adding pressure on the team after earlier losses in England. India now have 52 points with a points percentage of 54.17. South Africa, in contrast, have moved up to second place in the WTC standings with 24 points and a points percentage of 66.67. Australia currently leads the table.
The loss at Eden Gardens also marks India's second home defeat while chasing a low total under the watch of head coach Gautam Gambhir. This has sparked criticism from fans, questioning the team's performance in Test cricket under his leadership.
Gambhir, who took over as head coach in July 2024, defended the team's tactics and the pitch conditions, stating that the curator provided the pitch that the team had asked for. He emphasized that the pitch tested the players' mental toughness and that the majority of wickets were taken by seamers.
Despite Gambhir's defense, the defeat raises concerns about India's adaptability on challenging surfaces as the WTC race intensifies. India's home chasing record, particularly at Eden Gardens, remains a concern.
Looking ahead, India will need to regroup and address their weaknesses to improve their standing in the WTC. The team will aim to bounce back in the upcoming matches to strengthen their position in the championship. Meanwhile, South Africa will look to build on this victory and continue their strong performance in the WTC.
The updated WTC 2025-27 points table is as follows:
- Australia: 100.00 PCT%
- South Africa: 66.67 PCT%
- Sri Lanka: 66.67 PCT%
- India: 54.17 PCT%
- Pakistan: 50.00 PCT%
- England: 43.33 PCT%
- Bangladesh: 16.67 PCT%
- West Indies: 0.00 PCT%
