Harbhajan Singh criticizes India's pitch preparation, questions spin-bowling depth
What's the story
Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has criticized the pitches being prepared for home Test matches. He believes that the excessive turning surfaces are hampering the lives of both batters and bowlers in India. The criticism comes after India's 2-0 defeat against South Africa in the home Test series. Harbhajan said it is "high time" to move away from such quality of pitches that offer excessive turn from day one.
Pitch concerns
Harbhajan questions validity of current pitches
Speaking to PTI, Harbhajan said, "The kind of pitches we have been playing on, there is no requirement of making a bowler out of anyone because every delivery spins or some straightens." He added that a bowler only passes the test when he produces breakthroughs on good pitches. The former cricketer emphasized the need for fair surfaces at home to allow Indian batters to perform well.
Growth stagnation
Lack of overall growth in Indian cricket
Harbhajan stressed that India has been playing on sheer turning tracks for over a decade, which has hindered the overall development of players. He cited India's recent success in England, where a newly-appointed captain, Shubman Gill, scored a record 754 runs. India managed to draw the five-Test series against the hosts 2-2. Harbhajan also expressed concerns over the Kolkata Test ending within three days due to a dry, turning pitch.
Spin debate
Harbhajan questions India's spin resources
Along with the pitch discussion, Harbhajan also questioned India's spin resources in light of R Ashwin's absence. He noted that Indian spinners faltered in the home series against South Africa, taking fewer wickets than their counterparts in familiar conditions. The former cricketer highlighted Washington Sundar's potential but stated that he needs more exposure to Test cricket to develop into a specialist off-spinner for the team.