Ganguly Reveals Gautam Gambhir Suggested Kolkata Test Pitch Preparation

ISLAMABAD – Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly disclosed that ahead of the second Test against South Africa, it was head coach Gautam Gambhir who advised on preparing the pitch at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

India was bowled out for just 93 while chasing a modest target of 124 on the turning pitch. Speaking to *India Today*, Ganguly said the pitch was not ideal, but India should have comfortably achieved the target.

He added that Gambhir himself had guided the curator to prepare such a pitch. Ganguly emphasized that team success depends on balanced decision-making and trust in core skills, particularly relying on experienced fast bowlers like Mohammed Shami.

Ganguly also praised Gambhir’s initial coaching successes and highlighted the importance of backing key players, including Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and spinners capable of changing the course of the match.