As India gears up for their first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate emphasizes the importance of learning from past mistakes. The team reflects on their home Test loss to New Zealand last year, where they struggled against a formidable spin attack. The upcoming match, which commences on Friday, is crucial as India enters the series on the back of a convincing 2-0 victory over the West Indies. Meanwhile, South Africa arrives after a competitive 1-1 draw in Pakistan, showcasing their spinners' prowess by claiming 33 of the 40 wickets available to them during the series.

Notable performances from South African spinners Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer, and Senuran Muthusamy highlight their potential threat. Maharaj delivered an impressive nine-wicket haul while Harmer and Muthusamy also made significant contributions, with Muthusamy recognized as Player of the Series in the first Test. India's memories of their previous home series loss to New Zealand are still fresh, where New Zealand's spin bowlers combined for 36 wickets, significantly impacting the outcome of the games.

Ten Doeschate acknowledges that playing in the subcontinent presents unique challenges, especially against a formidable spin bowling lineup. He believes that addressing spin bowling strategies has become a priority to avoid repeating past failures. "It is a great challenge," he mentions, reflecting on the team's learning curve since that setback. He expresses confidence that lessons from the New Zealand series will lead to effective game plans against South Africa's spin attack.

The assistant coach expresses admiration for South Africa's recent growth in Test cricket, noting their achievements over the past months, including a significant victory over Australia in the World Test Championship. Their development as a spin bowling unit adds to the allure of the upcoming match. The stage is set for what promises to be an exciting clash that will test India's resolve against a competent South African team known for their ability to wield spin effectively. With both teams vying for success, fans can anticipate high-stakes cricket in Kolkata this week.