The cricket world is abuzz after India’s humiliating 76-run thrashing by South Africa in the T20 World Cup Super 8 stage. This marks India’s heaviest defeat by runs in the tournament’s history, casting doubts on their title aspirations. Pakistani ex-star batter Ahmad Shahzad has laid the blame squarely at Gautam Gambhir’s door, urging a complete rethink of the team’s approach.
On a popular TV panel, Shahzad dissected the playing XI choices: Washington Sundar replacing Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav benched, and struggling Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma persisting despite poor form. ‘Chakravarthy and Dube leaked runs everywhere. Bumrah was the lone warrior holding South Africa under 200,’ he observed sharply.
Recapping the match, South Africa capitalized on the toss, smashing 187/7. India’s chase never took off, folding for a measly 111. Shahzad emphasized that India’s bowling unit lacks balance on flat tracks, with Gambhir’s planning coming under fire.
As semifinals loom, this loss complicates India’s path. Gambhir’s first major test as coach demands innovative tactics and ruthless selections. The pressure is mounting—can Team India bounce back, or will strategic missteps prove fatal?