2024: A Year of Contrasts for Indian Cricket

Test and ODI Disappointments

Despite claiming the T20I World Cup, India experienced a challenging year in Test and ODI cricket. They failed to register a single ODI win, albeit with limited opportunities.

In Test cricket, India endured a historic low, losing a three-match Test series at home 0-3. India's last seven Tests yielded only one victory, exposing chinks in their Test armor.

Former India captain Anjum Chopra expressed, "Losing is one thing, but not being in the contest is another thing altogether." This sentiment aptly summarizes the team's forgettable performances.

A Subpar Year

Despite individual successes, such as Jasprit Bumrah's stellar bowling in Australia and Yashasvi Jaiswal's impressive Test batting, 2024 was a subpar year for Indian ODI and Test cricket.

Experts attribute India's struggles to their vulnerability against left-arm spin and overall quality spin bowling.

Practice Issue?

Some speculate that the focus on T20 cricket has impacted India's ability to play spin effectively. Batters approach the ball with harder hands, resulting in more edges.

Former Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar attributes it to "technical deficiencies." Left-arm spinners like Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner recently exposed these weaknesses, claiming 28 wickets on Indian soil.

Look for a Lasting Fix

Stop-gap solutions like turning pitches into rank turners are insufficient. India must address the issue through domestic cricket.

Star batters should prioritize playing Ranji Trophy cricket to address their technical flaws. Selectors and team management need to make tough calls, including dropping underperforming players mid-series.

Over-Dependent on Bumrah

Jasprit Bumrah's exceptional talent masks India's over-reliance on him, especially in Test cricket. The team needs to groom new fast-bowling talents.

Exploring a second out-and-out specialist fast bowler could strengthen India's bowling, especially in SENA countries.

Other Concerns

Leaks about internal conflicts can damage the team's morale. Former players urge the team to keep internal discussions private.