Sunil Gavaskar, a cricket icon, is critical of India’s approach to the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2021. He claimed it lacked the “fearlessness” required by the format.
Therefore, India is on the verge of exiting the premier competition after consecutive losses to Pakistan and New Zealand. To make the semi-finals, they now rely on net run rates and upsets.
“The word ‘fearless’ has often been used about the Indian team in recent months, but what has been seen is a fearful approach to a format which demands constant action and upheaval.” Sunil Gavaskar stated
“We have also heard captains and coaches saying they are not afraid to lose while going for a win. It’s easy to say that when you know your position is secure even if you lose. Now is the time to show it.” he added
India faltered once the competition began, despite two strong performances in the warm-up matches. India managed to score 6.53 in their two matches despite losing two tosses and batting first. They only took two wickets, which was their poorest performance in the tournament’s history.
“For India to have that chance to qualify, they need wins by massive margins in their games against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia. Then if New Zealand falter somewhere, they have that slim crack in the door to barge in,” the 72-year-old added.
Afghanistan, according to Sunil Gavaskar, is a difficult opponent for India. The Afghans are on track to reach the semi-finals after two massive wins and a close loss in their three encounters. If they defeat India, they will have made history.
Sunil Gavaskar emphasized the strength of the Afghanistan team, citing a close match between the two sides at the 2019 World Cup. They have a plethora of promising cricketers, as well as the looming threat of Rashid Khan.
Rashid Khan
“Afghanistan won’t be easy opponents. They ran India close in the 50 overs World Cup two years back, and it was excitement and inexperience that did them in that time. The T20 format is the one they love. They have mystery spinners and batsmen who love to smash the ball. Above all, they have Rashid Khan. So, India know they have a fight on their hands.” he said
“Here’s where champion teams pick themselves up from the floor and come hard at the opponents. India have champion players, no doubt about that at all. But do they have that fight, that hunger to win after being softened up by Pakistan and New Zealand?” Sunil Gavaskar further added.
On Wednesday, India will face Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi. This is the first time the teams have played in this format in nine years. India has won both of their matches so far, and if Afghanistan manages to change the tide, India’s World Cup hopes will be dashed.
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