New Delhi: Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has raised concerns over Team India’s balance under head coach Gautam Gambhir, arguing that the management’s emphasis on extending the batting order is weakening the bowling attack.
Speaking after the fifth Test against West Indies ended without a result due to a washout in Bengaluru, Gavaskar stressed that India must prioritise specialist bowlers rather than attempt to strengthen the batting lineup all the way to number eight.
Gavaskar said India should build its attack around four specialist bowlers, with two all-rounders providing additional options. He pointed to players such as Naman Dhir, who offers batting strength while being capable of bowling a few overs, and Axar Patel, who can contribute with both bat and ball.
The batting legend also cautioned against repeatedly searching for another player capable of matching Hardik Pandya’s all-round abilities. He described Pandya as irreplaceable and argued that India should identify players who can fulfil different roles rather than expect someone to replicate his overall contribution.
Gavaskar highlighted Naman Dhir as an example of a player who could provide useful support with the ball while making a valuable contribution with the bat.
According to Gavaskar, pushing the batting lineup too deep can come at the expense of bowling quality, leaving India vulnerable against stronger opponents. He maintained that a well-balanced attack with reliable specialist bowlers was more important than adding another batter to the lower order.
Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara also shared his views on the team’s bowling combination, particularly the need for a clear plan regarding spin selection.
Pujara emphasised that players must receive consistent opportunities and understand their roles within the larger squad, even if they do not feature in every playing XI. He said this clarity was particularly important for spinners, whose confidence can suffer after expensive spells in the shorter format.
He also pointed to the need to settle on India’s preferred spin options, including Kuldeep Yadav and Ravi Bishnoi, while evaluating alternatives when performances fall short.
Both former India stars called for a more settled approach to team selection, with Gavaskar stressing bowling balance and Pujara highlighting the importance of backing players and giving them sufficient opportunities to establish themselves.
