India’s dramatic 30-run defeat to South Africa at Eden Gardens has sparked widespread criticism from former cricketers, who questioned the team’s selection calls and tactical clarity.

The hosts crumbled while chasing just 124, prompting concerns over India’s declining strength on turning tracks. Former pacer Venkatesh Prasad was particularly blunt, saying the loss exposed deeper issues in India’s red-ball planning.

“While we have been excellent in white-ball cricket, we can’t call ourselves a top Test side with such planning. Selections without clarity and over-tactical thinking are backfiring. Poor results over a year in Tests, barring a drawn series in England,” Prasad posted on X.

A back-pedalling Bavuma followed a swirling ball and took a smart catch to remove Axar Patel that effect

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