India head coach Gautam Gambhir has expressed serious concerns over his team’s batting performance following their humiliating 89-run collapse in the fourth ODI against New Zealand at Mount Maunganui.
His concerns are not limited to Friday’s defeat, as India also struggled in the second ODI, losing seven wickets for just 111 runs while chasing a target of 135. Despite the setback, India lead the five-match series 2-1, with the final ODI scheduled to take place at Mount Maunganui on Sunday.
Speaking at a post-match press conference, Gambhir said the team’s batting problems could no longer be ignored, stressing that similar issues had emerged in the previous match. He pointed out that India had lost seven wickets for 111 or 112 runs while chasing a modest target in the second ODI, adding that the issue was being discussed more widely now because of Friday’s defeat.
Gambhir acknowledged that the latest loss was a significant setback but said the batting collapse in the previous match was equally concerning. He emphasised that Indian batters needed to improve both their mental approach and technical skills, particularly when playing in conditions that offer assistance to bowlers.
The head coach also highlighted the difference between batting conditions in India and New Zealand, saying that scoring 70 to 80 runs in the first 10 overs of an ODI should not be expected in such conditions. According to Gambhir, managing 35 to 40 runs without losing a wicket in the opening 10 overs would be a positive start.
He explained that the first 10 to 15 overs are generally the easiest period for batting in India, whereas in New Zealand, the same phase presents the toughest challenge for batters. Gambhir expressed hope that India’s experienced batting line-up would learn from its recent struggles and adapt to the conditions in the series-deciding final ODI.
