India’s recent loss to South Africa in the Kolkata Test has reignited debates over the mental approach of the national team. Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif has criticised the players for allegedly playing with fear and lacking self-belief, pointing to a deeper problem than just technical deficiencies.
Chasing 123 runs on a spin-friendly Eden Gardens pitch, India crumbled to 93 in the fourth innings, failing to secure a win. This defeat, the fourth in eight home Tests under coach Gautam Gambhir, has raised questions about both player selection and team management.
Kaif, on his YouTube channel, stated: “Whatever the players’ talent, there’s no sense of backing or assurance. They are playing with fear rather than freedom.” He pointed to the treatment of Sarfaraz Khan and Sai Sudharsan as examples of a system that undermines confidence.
Sarfaraz, who scored a century during India’s heavy defeat to New Zealand, was excluded from the squad in the subsequent Australian series. Similarly, Sai Sudharsan, who scored 87 and 39 in his latest Test against the West Indies, was overlooked in the playing eleven for the Kolkata Test. Kaif noted that Sudharsan’s spin-playing skills are among the best, yet he remains on the sidelines.
“Even after performing on the field, these players do not have a secure place. There is hesitation and doubt in the team. When players lack self-confidence on difficult pitches, it’s almost impossible for them to perform at their best,” Kaif added.
India will face South Africa in the second Test at Guwahati on 22 November. The former cricketer’s remarks highlight a pressing need for India to nurture self-assurance, resilience, and trust within the squad, particularly among younger players.