India head coach Gautam Gambhir has reacted to the team’s disappointing batting performance after their 244-run defeat against New Zealand in the fourth ODI at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on November 13.
India were bowled out for just 89 runs in 27 overs while chasing a target of 334. The defeat became India’s second-biggest loss by runs in ODI cricket. Matt Henry led New Zealand’s bowling attack with an impressive six-wicket haul.
Despite the heavy defeat, India still lead the five-match series 2-1. However, the result has raised concerns about the team’s batting ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Gambhir admitted that the batting performance was a major concern. He also stressed that international batters should be able to handle difficult bowling conditions.
“There are no unplayable deliveries in international cricket. Matt Henry bowled in good areas, but we should be able to negate that. You are always concerned when you get bundled out for 90 or odd. These are conditions close to the World Cup. Even in the previous game we lost seven wickets; it’s a concern.” Gambhir said in a post-match press conference.
Gautam Gambhir Opens Up About India’s Batting Collapse
Gambhir also discussed the technical problems that affected India’s batting. He felt that the batters failed to adjust to New Zealand’s bowling lengths and areas. According to the head coach, the Indian players got stuck at the crease instead of finding ways to handle the movement.
“I don’t go into technicality. There wasn’t a lot of deviation; it’s the job of the batter to negate movement. More than a seam, areas and length created problems for us. We got stuck into the crease,” Gambhir said.
Meanwhile, Gambhir praised India’s bowling unit for its effort. The bowlers managed to restrict New Zealand to 233 runs in their innings. Auqib Nabi, Gurnoor Brar and Axar Patel picked up two wickets each, while Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav claimed one apiece.
“Mujhe har us khiladi pe garv hai jo desh ke liye khelta hai. All of us should be proud of our bowling unit.” Gambhir concluded.
