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'We have always been flexible' - Gautam Gambhir's stunning take after Shivam Dube's dismal outing In 2nd T20I

India suffered a six-wicket defeat against the West Indies in the second fixture of their five-match T20I series on October 9, 2026, after failing to defend a total of 249-5 at Ranchi. The visitors successfully chased down the target in 18.3 overs, establishing their highest successful run chase in the format and leveling the series at one game apiece.

The outcome triggered scrutiny regarding the hosts' tactical choices, specifically the decision to elevate Shivam Dube to the number four batting slot ahead of Shreyas Iyer. Dube struggled to make an impact in the promoted position, contributing only 7 runs from 10 deliveries before falling to Roston Chase, who finished the bowling effort with figures of 3-24.

Speaking to the media after the match, Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir defended the strategic adjustment by emphasizing the team's ongoing philosophy regarding squad adaptability. Gambhir noted that the coaching staff has deployed the left-hander in similar roles previously, including throughout the World Cup campaign, maintaining that only opening batters hold fixed spots while the remainder of the lineup must remain fluid based on match conditions and opposition tactics.

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