Former Indian cricket team captain Sunil Gavaskar has voiced strong disapproval regarding the bowling tactics employed by West Indies pacer Shamar Joseph during the fourth T20I in Hyderabad. The incident occurred on Wednesday during the closing stages of India’s chase, as the hosts attempted to overhaul a formidable target of 248 runs set by the West Indies. The match ultimately saw the visitors secure a 24-run victory, successfully leveling the five-match series at two games apiece.
The controversy centered on a short-pitched delivery from Joseph that struck Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh on the shoulder. Despite clearly suffering from the impact, Arshdeep continued to bat, ignoring requests from his captain, Shreyas Iyer, to retire hurt. As Arshdeep struggled, the following delivery from Joseph was another bouncer directed at the injured player. The ball evaded the batter and resulted in four byes and a wide. Gavaskar, speaking from the commentary box, expressed frustration at the bowler’s decision-making throughout this period of the innings.
Questioning the sportsmanship and tactical logic of the West Indies attack, Gavaskar remarked, "Why attack the batter when the stumps are right there?" The former legendary batter insisted that the bowler should have focused on the unprotected stumps rather than targeting a visibly injured opponent who was moving away from the crease. Gavaskar noted that the intent appeared to be aimed directly at the batter, which he deemed unnecessary given the state of the game and the player's physical condition.
Following the delivery, Arshdeep was unable to proceed further and was eventually retired hurt after scoring five runs. This injury has raised significant concerns for the Indian team management as they prepare for the series decider. Beyond the immediate incident, Gavaskar used the platform to address broader issues within the current Indian batting lineup. He expressed disappointment in their inability to successfully chase down large totals, noting that the team lacked the composure expected of a high-profile squad.
"If the batters don’t take responsibility, this Indian side will not succeed," Gavaskar stated. He further emphasized that the batting unit must demonstrate greater dominance, particularly on tracks where conditions, such as the arrival of evening dew, typically assist the side chasing the target. The former captain felt that the team’s failure to execute a disciplined chase was a significant factor in their 24-run defeat in Hyderabad.
The West Indies performance was headlined by an impressive innings from captain Shai Hope, who remained unbeaten on 102 off 50 balls, helping his team reach a total of 247 for three. India, in response, struggled to maintain momentum and was eventually bowled out for 223. Keemo Paul proved to be the standout bowler for the visitors, claiming five wickets to dismantle the Indian batting order at critical intervals during the match.
With the series now locked at 2-2, the momentum has shifted toward the final showdown. Both teams are scheduled to meet at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday to determine the winner of the series. The fitness status of Arshdeep Singh and the team's ability to rectify their chasing strategy will likely be primary points of focus for the Indian camp ahead of the final contest.
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