Gavaskar Slams India’s Bowling Plans After West Indies’ Record Chase
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RANCHI, OCT 10 : Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has strongly criticised India’s bowling plans after the hosts failed to defend a massive total of 249 for five against the West Indies in the second T20 International here, raising questions over the effectiveness of the team’s strategy and its execution on the field.
India’s batting unit, powered by an explosive 82 from Sanju Samson, put up a formidable total. However, the West Indies launched a stunning counterattack to chase down the target of 250 in just 18.3 overs, securing a seven-wicket victory in a high-scoring encounter that produced 501 runs.
Gavaskar said India’s batters had done their job by posting a challenging total and that the responsibility for the defeat rested largely with the bowling unit. He also rejected dew as a convenient explanation for the failure, stressing the need to examine the plans devised by the bowling coach and whether the bowlers had executed them properly.
His remarks have intensified scrutiny of India’s bowling strategy, particularly after the team failed to contain the opposition despite having a substantial total to defend.
Former India fast bowler Varun Aaron also questioned the captaincy decisions, pointing specifically to the introduction of Axar Patel in the fourth over after India had taken two early wickets. Aaron argued that India should have persisted with its pace attack instead of bringing in a spinner so early in the innings.
The West Indies capitalised on India’s tactical shortcomings, with Shai Hope smashing a century off 45 balls and Sherfane Rutherford contributing a blistering 84. Their aggressive batting dismantled the Indian bowling attack and ensured a comfortable chase.
The defeat has raised concerns over India’s bowling discipline, tactical decisions and ability to defend big totals under pressure. With the batting unit delivering an imposing score, attention has now shifted to the team’s preparation, bowling plans and execution in crucial situations.
