Former Indian cricket team coach Ravi Shastri has delivered a scathing assessment of the Indian batting lineup following their dramatic collapse in the second T20I against Bangladesh in Guwahati. The batting failure, which saw India lose eight wickets for just 47 runs, has drawn sharp criticism from the veteran commentator and former coach.
Guwahati Batting Collapse: What Went Wrong?
The Indian cricket team suffered a spectacular batting meltdown at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on November 23, 2024. After a promising start that saw them reach 80 for 2, the innings completely unraveled. The middle and lower order crumbled under pressure, managing to post only a modest total of 127 before being bowled out.
India lost their last eight wickets for a mere 47 runs, a collapse that ultimately cost them the match as Bangladesh chased down the target with five wickets in hand. The defeat leveled the three-match series at 1-1, setting up a thrilling decider.
Shastri's Blunt Assessment of Indian Batters
Ravi Shastri, known for his straightforward commentary, didn't mince words when analyzing the performance. He expressed particular concern about the shot selection and lack of application from the Indian batters on a pitch that demanded more patience and smart cricket.
The former coach emphasized that such collapses are unacceptable for a team of India's caliber, especially when building toward major tournaments. He pointed out that while individual players possess tremendous talent, the collective failure to adapt to conditions and situations remains a worrying trend.
Shastri highlighted that the Guwahati collapse wasn't an isolated incident but part of a pattern that needs urgent addressing. "When you're 80 for 2, you should be looking at 160-170, not getting bowled out for 127," he remarked, underscoring the missed opportunity.
Broader Implications for Indian Cricket
The timing of this collapse is significant as the Indian team continues its preparation for future international assignments. Shastri's comments reflect growing concerns about the team's middle-order stability and their ability to handle pressure situations in challenging conditions.
The series now stands at 1-1, with everything to play for in the final match. The performance in the decider will be closely watched, not just for the series result but as an indicator of how the team responds to criticism and learns from their mistakes.
Shastri concluded that while he isn't panicking about one loss, the nature of the defeat should serve as a wake-up call for the entire batting unit. The team management and selectors will be keenly observing how players address these concerns in the coming matches.
