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'When you bat up to 8, you weaken your bowling' - Sunil Gavaskar flags India's T20I squad structure flaw under Gautam Gambhir

Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has criticized India’s T20 International squad selection under head coach Gautam Gambhir, arguing that the team’s reliance on eight specialist batters weakens its bowling attack. Gavaskar’s remarks follow India’s recent series against the West Indies, where the visitors chased down 249 runs in just 18.3 overs to win the second T20I by six wickets at Ranchi on October 9, 2026, leveling the five-match series at 1-1.

He emphasized the need for at least four dedicated bowlers, with two all-rounders like Naman Dhir and Axar Patel providing additional support, rather than overloading the lineup with batters in an attempt to replace Hardik Pandya’s all-round impact. Gavaskar warned that this imbalance directly contributes to India’s struggles, particularly in high-pressure matches where bowling depth proves decisive.

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