Over the past 12 years, India built a powerful and nearly unbeatable record in
Test cricket at home. Generation after generation of players contributed to this
success with hard work, skill, and strong teamwork. But about 12 and a half months
ago, the first signs of trouble appeared. By November 2025, those small cracks
had turned into big problems, and India’s long-standing home dominance in Test
cricket collapsed completely.
There was a time when even the strongest teams were nervous about playing Test
matches in India. India were strong around the world, but at home they were
almost impossible to defeat. Their deep understanding of Indian conditions
and their lineup of world-class players helped them overcome even tough opponents.
After losing 1–2 to Alastair Cook’s England in December 2012, India went on an
incredible run, losing only four home Tests from early 2013 to late 2024.
However, things changed when Tom Latham’s New Zealand team arrived. They came
with hope more than confidence, but were surprised at how easily India’s
dominance slipped. Their win created a new model that South Africa, led by
Temba Bavuma, perfected in the last two weeks, ending India’s aura of
invincibility at home in a decisive and impressive way.