Source cric info
India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has sent a clear warning to his batters after a heavy 244-run defeat against New Zealand in the fourth One-Day International (ODI) in Mount Maunganui on Friday. Chasing a big target of 334, the Indian batting lineup fell apart and was bowled out for just 89 runs in less than 27 overs.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Gambhir did not hide his worry. He pointed out that this was not a one-time mistake, noting that the team also lost seven wickets for just 111 runs while chasing a small target of 135 in the second ODI.
“You are always concerned when you get bundled out for 90-odd,” Gambhir said. “There is no benefit to sweeping it under the carpet. Even in the previous game, we lost seven wickets. It is a concern.”
“No Unplayable Balls in International Cricket”
New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry caused most of the damage, taking six wickets as star batters like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were dismissed without scoring. While the pitch offered help to the fast bowlers, Gambhir refused to blame the conditions or the bowling.
He stressed that batters need to be smarter and stay calm during the tough opening overs instead of giving up their wickets easily. According to the coach, surviving the start of the innings is more important than scoring fast on tricky overseas pitches.
“There are no unplayable deliveries in international cricket,” Gambhir said firmly. “Matt Henry bowled in good areas, but we should be able to handle that. If you score 35 or 40 runs in the first 10 overs without losing a wicket, that is good enough in conditions like these.”
Eyes on the 2027 World Cup
Gambhir reminded everyone that the pitches and weather in New Zealand are very similar to what India will face at next year’s 2027 ODI World Cup. Because of this, he wants the players to fix their footwork and mental approach right now rather than waiting until the big tournament.
While he praised the Indian bowlers for their hard work—and noted that dropped catches in the field cost the team dearly—his main message was aimed at the batting group.
Despite the painful loss, India still leads the five-match series 2-1. The team will have a quick chance to bounce back and win the series when they face New Zealand in the fifth and final ODI on Sunday.
