In a recent commentary on the pitch controversy surrounding the second Test between South Africa and India in Cape Town, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar targeted what he perceives as double standards in pitch criticism, especially from countries in the ‘SENA’ region (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia).
The Test concluded within five sessions, making it the shortest in history, with the Newlands pitch facing scrutiny after South Africa collapsed for 55 in the first innings. Indian captain Rohit Sharma and South Africa’s batting coach Ashwell Prince criticized the pitch conditions, highlighting double standards in pitch criticism between SENA countries and subcontinent decks.
Gavaskar, in his column for Mid-day, dismissed claims that the curator got the pitch wrong, stating, “These kind of excuses that the curator got it wrong is typical of the SENA countries.” He referenced the criticism faced by Indian curators during the Test series against Australia last year, emphasizing the disparity in portrayal.
As the first Test between India and England approaches on January 25, Gavaskar predicts a barrage of criticism from the English media. He criticizes them, saying, “Anything that doesn’t suit their team will be criticized, and allegations will fly thick and fast.”
