On Sunday India lost the 2nd T20i to West Indies. Having lost the toss india were made to bat first. They put on a defendable and respectful total of 170/7 with the collective efforts of Shivam Dube at top and a couple of handy knocks down the order. This was chased by windies by keeping 8 wickets in hand and 9 balls to spare.
The T20i world cup is going to be held in Australia next year. Every team is trying to get their combinations right. Every team wants to solve their problems and see to that it that they do not get exposed. India’s problem is that they struggle to bat first. We all know that India is one of the best teams in chasing targets probably the best. But it when comes to bat first our record is not good. One of the main reasons for India’s struggles when they bat first is their inability to make the most of the powerplay. Since the last T20 World Cup in 2016, India’s run rate in the powerplay has been a little over than 8 runs per over, which puts them behind some of the well-oiled T20I teams, including England and Australia. Behind this one of the reasons would be Shikhar Dhawan. Shikhar Dhawan’s strike rate in T20I cricket tells us an interesting story. Over the years, the left-hander has scored at 128.67 and his inability to switch gears has been a cause of concern.In 2019, Dhawan’s form in T20I cricket has been ordinary. Dhawan has managed just 222 runs in 10 matches at a strike rate of just 109.35. He is yet to score a 50-plus score in the ongoing year in T20Is.
Also India’s inability to convert good start into a big total. We lack content in the final overs where the momentum shifts in favour of the opponents. Losing Hardik Pandya for this entire home season has been a major set back for India. He has proven from time to time that he can smash the bowlers and help the team to reach a respectful total.
One of the most important concern is India’s fielding. In the ongoing India has dropped some of the crucial catches at some crucial times which costed India 2nd T20i. Yuvraj Singh, one of finest fielder, has slammed the efforts of India in fielding. He tweeted , “India very poor on the field today ! Young guns reacting a bit late on the ball! Too much cricket ? ? Let’s get these runs come on lads.” Poor fielding leads to lack of confidence among bowlers who try to defend the total.
So India must improve these problems and not let the opponents exploit our flaws.
Ayush's blog 