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India's shocking 0-2 series loss to the Proteas in the recent red-ball series has plunged the side into crisis.

In the final match, South Africa inflicted upon India a record defeat in terms of runs, defying expectations. This represented South Africa's maiden series victory in the subcontinent in 25 years and the host nation's second home series loss in just 12 months after a 12-year unbeaten run.

The positive trajectory gained during the previous half-year has all but vanished and the prospects of several players - including head coach the coach - are under scrutiny.

Early Optimism Fades Quickly

The young team's strong showing in the UK this summer, under a new captain, suggested a seamless changeover post the close together exits of key players R Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli.

A straightforward 2-0 victory over the Windies at the commencement of the home campaign boosted that belief, until the Proteas came and inflicted a fell blow.

The home side were a tad unfortunate that captain Gill got injured very early in the opening Test and was ruled out in the contest. However, that does not excuse or justify the side of the well below standard display in the two games against South Africa.

A number of star cricketers took a hit, and a few members hoping for extended tenures in Tests were exposed as not yet good enough - technically or mentally - for the longer format.

Concerning History

This was the second series sweep on home soil experienced by India in just more than a year. Last year, underestimated the Kiwis had secured a remarkable 3-0 triumph which effectively cost India a place in the WTC final.

The latest loss to South Africa could damage the team's prospects of reaching the final of this season also.

From number three in the WTC table before the series, the side have dropped to the fifth spot. Although nine additional matches are yet to be played, a majority are against the Aussies. Ordinarily, competing on home turf would be a significant benefit - including against the mighty Aussies. Yet the disasters against New Zealand and South Africa offer no room for such comfort.

Roots of the Decline

The national team's frailty in the longer format has been clearly revealed. Nevertheless, the reason India have performed so poorly in Tests on home soil recently is continues to confuse.

In the 21st century, the Indian cricket team were regarded as invincible in Test cricket in home conditions. Under sweltering weather and on pitches that favored spin bowling and benefited their players, the hosts dominated all comers. The odd series defeat, like in 2012-13 against the English, was considered an aberration.

Currently, India seem beatable in their own backyard.

Versus New Zealand in 2024 and South Africa this year, the home side were hoisted by their own petard. The pitches they developed to suit their strengths failed miserably, as rivals used them more effectively, beating the Indian batters and bowlers when it counted the most.

What's Gone Wrong?

A few experts argue that India is floundering in home conditions because home surfaces have been modified from spinning tracks to quick wickets to prepare players to do well abroad.

A few mention that the domestic T20 league, in which numerous foreign cricketers play, has removed the surprise and difficulty subcontinental pitches would challenge them with earlier.

While there is validity in each argument, it fails to account for the reason the team's showings on home soil have witnessed such a dramatic drop.

Multiple Failings

Most former players identify a complicated issue, not limited to a few causes.

Analysts and squad members have pointed to various flaws after India's disappointing performance to the South Africans: not respecting the foe, inadequate readiness, questionable picks, arrogance, regular alterations of the playing XI, and prioritising white-ball over the longer format.

This was evident in the displays of the side.

Members such as Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal, of whom great things were anticipated, suffered for their nonchalance, while Sai Sudarshan, Reddy, and Dhruv Jurel - who were looking to cement their place in the team - were found wanting in skill and mindset, suffering the consequences for their casual attitude.

A small number - Jadeja, Bumrah, Kuldeep, Mohammed Siraj and Washington Sundar - did justice to their ability and standing - but inadequately to secure victories.

Coaching Scrutiny

The analysis also included the entire setup - team selectors and support staff were also questioned, fuelled by disappointed supporters and vocal past stars. At the centre of the scrutiny was mentor Gautam Gambhir.

In his post-series press