India head coach Gautam Gambhir has expressed serious concerns over his batters’ performances following the team’s humiliating defeat against New Zealand in the fourth ODI at Mount Maunganui, where India were bowled out for just 89 runs.
Gambhir’s concerns, however, extend beyond the latest defeat. India also struggled in the previous match, losing seven wickets for 111 or 112 runs while chasing a target of 135, raising questions about the team’s ability to handle challenging batting conditions.
India currently lead the series 2-1, with the fifth and final ODI scheduled to take place at Mount Maunganui on Sunday.
Speaking at a post-match press conference on Friday night, Gambhir said the team could not afford to ignore its recurring batting problems.
“There is no point in ignoring these issues. It is not just about this match. In the previous game, we also lost seven wickets for 111 or 112 runs. Today, we have lost, so people are talking about it,” he said.
Gambhir acknowledged that the defeat was a significant one but stressed that the batting struggles in the previous match were equally concerning.
He said New Zealand’s bowling conditions were offering assistance to bowlers, making it essential for Indian batters to prepare both mentally and technically.
Gambhir also explained that scoring 70 to 80 runs in the first 10 overs was unrealistic in such conditions. According to him, reaching 35 to 40 runs without losing a wicket would represent a good start.
He pointed out that the first 10 to 15 overs are generally the easiest period for batting in India, whereas in these conditions they become the most challenging.
The Indian head coach expressed hope that his experienced squad would adapt to the conditions and deliver a stronger performance in the final ODI.