There were no demons in Kolkata wicket, it wasn’t unplayable: Gautam Gambhir

Head coach Gautam Gambhir did not mince words while dissecting India's recent 30-run defeat against South Africa in the first Test of the two-match series. The hosts were shot out for 93 on just the third day during their run-chase of 124 as the Proteas won the series-opener by 30 runs at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Gambhir pointed out to having the 'right temperament' while batting in challenging conditions like the ones presented in Kolkata. He also acknowledged that the pitch was not the type on which batting was impossible, and that the blame should not be put on the pitch.

“I felt 123 (124) was very much chaseable. You need the right temperament to score runs, this is what happens when you don’t play well. this is the pitch we asked for and this is what we got. You should know how to play spin. The majority of wickets were taken by pacers," Gambhir said at the post-match press conference.

"This is what we asked for and we are happy with what we got. This is exactly the pitch we were looking for. The curator was very helpful. If you don't play well, this is what happens. It wasn't an unplayable wicket. It was a wicket where your technique and temperament is tested. If you have solid defence, you can score on such wickets," he added.

The 44-year-old also noted that different eras should not be compared while analysing a particular group of matches. He also provided an update on Rishabh Pant and was confident that the wicketkeeper-batter will be among the runs going forward.

"We shouldn't compare eras. This dressing room has young players. Test cricket requires mental toughness. It's not only about skill. I think tactically we were spot on. As regards Rishabh Pant, he is a world-class batter. He is playing (Tests) after a long time. Going ahead, he would be fine," he added.

Simon Harmer was awarded the Player of the Match award for his eight-wicket run in Kolkata (4/30 and 4/21). There were as many as six players from India in their second innings who scored in single digits. Only Washington Sundar and Axar Patel scored above the 20-run mark during the run-chase. 124 became the lowest target successfully defended in Tests in India.

The second Test is scheduled to be played at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. It will commence on Saturday, November 22. The hosts will be aiming at putting in a much better display with the bat in order to salvage the series and not succumb to another home Test series defeat with Gambhir at the helm.