A stunned silence gripped Indian cricket fans following the 76-run Super 8 drubbing by South Africa—the worst by runs in T20 World Cup annals for India. Semifinal prospects now hang by a thread, prompting fierce debate on team choices. Leading the charge is former Pakistan batter Ahmad Shahzad, who insists Gautam Gambhir must urgently revamp his blueprint.
During a TV discussion, Shahzad zeroed in on the XI: Axar Patel sidelined for Washington Sundar, Kuldeep dropped, and form-slump victims Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma retained inexplicably. ‘Varun and Shivam were punished all around. Bumrah single-handedly kept South Africa below 200,’ he analyzed.
Match highlights saw South Africa, post-toss win, amass 187/7 through fearless strokeplay. India managed just 111 in pursuit, exposing vulnerabilities. Shahzad stressed India’s incomplete attack on batter-friendly surfaces demands Gambhir’s immediate tactical pivot.
With stakes soaring, this loss is a wake-up call. Gambhir’s coaching mettle will be tested as India eyes redemption. Bold calls on personnel and plans are imperative to reclaim momentum in the race for glory.