Mon Nov 24 12:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article based on the provided information:
Fans Slam Gautam Gambhir as India Batting Collapses Against South Africa
Guwahati, India – Indian cricket fans are expressing outrage and disappointment following a dismal batting performance by the national team on Day 3 of the second Test against South Africa at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. The team crumbled in the face of a daunting 489-run first innings deficit, eventually being bowled out for a mere 201.
Only Yashasvi Jaiswal (58) and Washington Sundar (48) offered significant resistance against a relentless South African bowling attack led by Marco Jansen (6/48) and Simon Harmer (3/64). Senior batsmen including KL Rahul (22), Rishabh Pant (7), and Ravindra Jadeja (6) failed to deliver, leaving India reeling. A promising start at 95/1 quickly disintegrated as the team lost 6 wickets for just 27 runs.
The collapse has ignited a firestorm of criticism directed at India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir. Fans are lashing out at what they perceive as constant experimentation with the team lineup and a lack of stability in player positions. With 7 wins, 9 losses, and 2 draws in 18 Tests under Gambhir’s leadership, some fans are drawing unfavorable comparisons to the tumultuous tenure of former coach Greg Chappell. The parallels are stinging, evoking memories of India’s early exit from the 2007 ODI World Cup and the 2006 Champions Trophy under Chappell’s guidance.
The defeat now threatens India’s chances of qualifying for the 2027 World Test Championship (WTC) final. Furthermore, the loss puts India on the brink of another home series defeat, following their 0-3 whitewash against New Zealand in 2024.
With South Africa holding a commanding 314-run lead in their second innings, India faces an uphill battle to salvage the series. Unless a miraculous turnaround occurs, the Proteas are poised to secure their first Test series victory in India since 2000.
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