India were in the driver’s seat at the end of Day 2, having South Africa at 93/7 with the Proteas leading by only 63 runs. However, the partnership between Temba Bavuma (55) and Corbin Bosch (25) turned the tide early on Day 3 as South Africa added another 60 crucial runs to the target. With a batter down, India struggled in the chase and eventually fell short by 30 runs as the Proteas’ bowling unit took advantage of the tricky conditions.
“The point is that you should be able to know how to play turn. And this is what we asked for, and this is what we got. I thought the curator was very supportive,” said Gambhir on the pitch at Eden Gardens.
“I still believe that irrespective of how the wicket was, 123 (124) was chaseable. And I felt that if you are willing to put your head down and if you have a solid defence, if you have the temperament, you can definitely score runs. Yes, it might not be a wicket that is going to be very flamboyant, where you can play those big shots.”