Ex-Pakistan captain gives verdict on Team India after T20I series loss against West Indies, says 'it will impact India's morale'

Salman Butt, the former Pakistani opening batsman, has shared his insights on India's recent 5-match series defeat against the West Indies.

SportsTak

• Mon • 14 Aug 2023

Salman Butt, the former Pakistani opening batsman, has shared his insights on India's recent 5-match series defeat against the West Indies. He believes that this loss could potentially affect India's morale as they prepare for upcoming cricketing milestones such as the Asia Cup and the World Cup. Notably, Butt emphasized that the player's body language may betray a dip in confidence, regardless of any change in format or opposition in the forthcoming major tournaments.

The series, which culminated in the West Indies seizing a 3-2 victory, had its definitive moment in the decider match. Having lost the initial two matches in the Caribbean, India chose to bat first in this conclusive clash. The team posted a score of 165-9, a result affected by inclement weather disruptions.

The West Indies came back with a commanding performance, amassing 171-2 in a mere 18 overs, undeterred by weather-related interruptions. The limelight of the match was claimed by West Indies' opener, Brandon King, who's splendid unbeaten 85-run innings played a crucial role in sealing the win for his side.

Sharing his perspective on his YouTube channel, Salman Butt remarked, "It doesn't matter what the format is or who the opposition is. A triumph certainly elevates a team's confidence for forthcoming engagements. Conversely, a loss of this magnitude will likely affect India's morale."

Butt further added, "Though it may not be overtly evident in interviews, the after-effects will likely manifest in the players' body language and decision-making during matches."

India's squad for the West Indies series was predominantly young, devoid of stalwarts like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul. Even pace ace Jasprit Bumrah was not up for selection for this series.

Discussing the performance of the younger squad members, Butt noted a discrepancy between potential and actual on-field performances. He commented, "Many would say that it was a T20I series, and several of India's top players were missing. But at the same time, this is India's normal practice. It wasn't the first time that a young side was picked. It also wasn't that West Indies are a very big team, and it was very difficult for India to beat them."