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Gautam Gambhir issues warning over flat pitches, says 'bowlers' careers are at stake'

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has renewed his criticism of flat pitches in limited-overs cricket, arguing that such conditions unfairly endanger bowlers’ careers. His remarks came after West Indies defeated India by six wickets in the second T20I in Ranchi, where a combined 501 runs and 33 sixes were scored in just 38.3 overs.

Gambhir emphasized that bowlers invest years to reach the international level, and pitches favoring batters disproportionately risk their long-term prospects. He also acknowledged the challenge posed by heavy dew and a small ground, noting that even world champions must adapt rather than rely on excuses after losses.

The Indian team struggled to defend 250 runs, with Shai Hope’s unbeaten 102 and Sherfane Rutherford’s 84 proving decisive for the West Indies. Gambhir praised the opposition’s batting but stressed that India must continue improving under tough conditions, having previously raised similar concerns after chasing 406 runs against South Africa in Guwahati.

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