‘Poor display of patience, technique,’ says Irfan Pathan:Former cricket stars like R Ashwin, Badrinath mount criticism over India’s clean sweep

South Africa ended a 25-year wait for a Test win in India, last achieved under Hansie Cronje in 2000. Under Temba Bavuma’s leadership, they dominated from the outset, controlling all sessions with both bat and ball. The turning point came on Day 2 when Sen Muthusamy and Marco Jansen rescued their innings from 247/6, helping them post a formidable 489, with Jansen later using the red-soil pitch to dismantle India’s first innings. Instead of enforcing the follow-on, South Africa chose to bat again, a decision questioned by many as they aimed to guide Stubbs toward a century before declaring. Still, the strategy worked, shutting the door on any Indian comeback. Harmer’s brilliance on Day 5 sealed the result, capping off a dominant all-round performance that showcased South Africa’s composure, skill, and tactical awareness. Meanwhile, the heavy defeat has triggered intense criticism back home. Former Indian legends and experts have come down hard on the team, raising serious questions about Gautam Gambhir’s Test coaching. Fans have also expressed frustration, demanding his removal from the red-ball setup. Here’s a look at the reactions and scrutiny Team India faces after the Guwahati Test. Ravichandran Ashwin Irfan Pathan Subhramaniam Badrinath Harsha Bhogle Shreevats Goswami