India's landmark 200th T20I match ended on a hapless four-run loss to West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium, Trinidad, on August 3 (Thursday). The victory allowed the hosts to secure an early lead in the five-match series. Under Captain Hardik Pandya's leadership, Team India has seen some solid strategic moves, including the shift towards a youthful and dynamic lineup. However, certain perplexing decisions have raised eyebrows. As the 2024 T20 World Cup looms, to be hosted by the USA and the Caribbean, India must optimally utilise this series against the West Indies for crucial preparation.
Let's take you through the loopholes and masterstroke which characterised India's performance in the opening T20I against West Indies.
Loophole no.1 - Team selection and batting order, a subject of concern
Despite his three half-centuries in the preceding ODI series, Ishan Kishan's elevation to the top of the batting order in the first T20I didn't pay off. With a string of single-digit scores in his T20I track record, his lackluster powerplay performance is evident. It's high time India capitalise on Yashasvi Jaiswal's exceptional form shown in the 2023 IPL season.
Sanju Samson's placement at no.6, below Hardik, also begs questioning. His natural style doesn't lend itself to match finisher, and his average entry point since 2021 suggests he would be better suited higher in the order. A possible solution may involve bringing Jaiswal onboard and elevating Samson's batting position, which could make room for moving Hardik and possibly Tilak Varma further down the order.
Loophole no.2 - India's batting fiasco and inability to weave partnership during the chase
The latter part of India's batting innings was unfortunately marked by an unexpected collapse. Requiring only 37 runs from the last five overs with six wickets left, the odds seemed in India's favor. However, the casual dismissal of Hardik and Sanju Samson's run-out during an attempted single turned the tide. Further complications arose with Kuldeep Yadav struggling to connect, Axar Patel overwhelmed, and a baffling batting order mix-up involving Chahal.
Such a collapse was uncharacteristic for a team of India's caliber and raises concerns ahead of the T20 World Cup at these same venues next year.
Masterstroke - Excellent execution of ‘Death-Over’ bowling strategy by Team India
Despite a dropped catch by Yuzvendra Chahal and a hefty hit from the West Indies skipper Rovman Powell, Team India's death-over bowling strategy was well-executed. With a tight control over the remaining overs, Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, and Mukesh Kumar efficiently restricted the West Indies' run flow.
Arshdeep utilised pace and length variations effectively, while Mukesh stuck to perfect yorkers. Despite the explosive potential of West Indies batter, including Powell, Shimron Hetmyer, Romario Shepherd, and Jason Holder, the West Indies were limited to 149/6 in their 20 overs.
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