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With India trailing 0-1 in the two-match Test series against South Africa, former India selector Saba Karim has urged the team management to make sharp tactical adjustments ahead of the second Test. Speaking on Star Sports, Karim highlighted three important areas India must address if they are to bounce back strongly after the disappointing 30-run defeat in Kolkata.
Saba Karim picks three things India should do in the Guwahati Test
Saba stressed that India’s first corrective step should come at the selection table. According to him, the team must return to a more stable and proven combination for subcontinent conditions. The former wicketkeeper-batter believes that India moved away from this formula in the opening Test, which disrupted the team’s rhythm. Reinstating the six-batter strategy, in his view, will help India absorb pressure better while still maintaining bowling depth.
“Number one factor for India would be to change their playing combination, get back to six specialist batters that include Rishabh Pant and play with five bowlers — three spinners and two pace bowlers,” said Saba.
Saba’s second point revolved around India’s recurring struggle to put up commanding totals in the first innings — a weakness that cost them heavily at Eden Gardens. He emphasised the significance of controlling the match early by posting a healthy first-innings score. He believes sustained partnerships and disciplined shot selection will be essential, especially after India’s top-order collapse in the opening Test.
“India should look to outscore South Africa in the first innings. The batters need to apply themselves in a much better manner. They should look to build partnerships, grind themselves,” Saba explained.
The final point made by Saba targeted the playing conditions in Kolkata, which came under scrutiny for excessive assistance to spinners early in the match. India were bowled out for 106 in the fourth innings while chasing just 124 — a collapse that reflected the unpredictability of the pitch.
“I really hope that India plays on a better track — a sporting track that offers equal opportunity to the batters as well as the bowlers,” Saba added.
Saba suggested that a balanced surface would not only promote fair competition but also allow India’s superior support cast to come into play. A pitch that remains consistent through all four days, he believes, will benefit India’s batters and allow their spinners to operate with greater control.
India aim for a strong comeback
With South Africa already holding the advantage, the second Test has effectively become a must-win for Shubman Gill‘s men. Saba’s recommendations — a more balanced XI, better first-innings execution, and improved pitch conditions — offer a clear blueprint for India to stage a revival. How the team responds to these suggestions may well determine the fate of the series.
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