We have our problems in Australia lately with ridiculously flat pitches that flatter the batsmen’s averages and literally force fast bowlers into retirement (see ‘Flat Pitch Emergency’), but in India the reverse is happening. India struggle to win overseas and are desperate to win at home, so they cook up pitches that turn square from the first day. They open the bowling with Ashwin and Jadeja and don’t even need a first change bowler! South Africa bowled out today for 79 – the lowest ever Test total against India. What a complete and utter waste of time. Sure, all host teams probably nudge their home wickets in their own favour, but honestly, is it really that difficult to prepare a proper Test wicket that at least gives a sniff to the visitors or to the team that loses the toss? This is getting out of hand. It’s going to kill the game. Not happy. Not happy at all.