New Delhi: India’s shocking 76-run defeat to South Africa in the T20 World Cup Super 8 clash has sent shockwaves through the cricket fraternity. The loss, the biggest by runs in India’s T20WC history, has put the team’s semifinal hopes in jeopardy. Former Pakistan opener Ahmad Shahzad didn’t mince words, pointing fingers directly at head coach Gautam Gambhir’s team selection.
Speaking on a Pakistani TV show, Shahzad questioned the wisdom of picking Washington Sundar over Axar Patel and leaving out Kuldeep Yadav. He also raised eyebrows over retaining out-of-form Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma in the playing XI. ‘Varun Chakravarthy and Shivam Dube were hit all over the park. Without Jasprit Bumrah, South Africa would have crossed 200 easily,’ Shahzad remarked.
South Africa, electing to bat first after winning the toss, piled up 187/7, powered by aggressive batting. India crumbled to 111 all out in reply, unable to handle the pace and spin onslaught. Shahzad warned that unless Gambhir overhauls his strategy, India risks squandering its favorite tag despite a star-studded lineup.
The defeat exposes glaring gaps in India’s bowling attack, particularly on batting-friendly pitches. Gambhir, known for his tactical acumen as a player, now faces intense scrutiny to make bold changes ahead of crucial upcoming matches. Fans and experts alike are demanding answers on selection calls that backfired spectacularly. With the tournament intensifying, India must regroup swiftly to salvage its campaign.