NEW DELHI: After India’s lacklustre performance in Adelaide, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar expressed his disappointment, criticising the team’s approach and preparation.
Australia secured a resounding 10-wicket victory over India in the second Test, leveling the five-match series at 1-1. Delivering a commanding performance, the visitors wrapped up the pink-ball Test in just two-and-a-half days, showcasing their dominance and leaving India with much to ponder.
Rohit Sharma press conference after loss in Adelaide Test vs Australia
Gavaskar candidly highlighted the need for focus and commitment, urging the players to prioritise their cricketing responsibilities. India’s defeat raised questions about their strategy, mindset, and adaptability in challenging conditions.
Gavaskar’s pointed remarks serve as a wake-up call for the team to regroup, reassess, and deliver the performances expected at the international level.
“Look at the remainder of the series as a three-match series. Forget that it’s a five-match series. What I would like the Indian team to do is use the next couple of days as practice. You can’t be sitting in your hotel rooms because you have come here to play cricket. You don’t have to practice the whole day, you can practice a session in the morning or afternoon, but don’t waste the two days. You would’ve been here playing a Test if it went for five days,” Gavaskar told Star Sports.
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The former India captain further stressed that the responsibility of organising additional practice sessions should rest entirely with the captain and coach.
“You have to give yourself a chance to get into rhythm. You haven’t got runs, your bowlers haven’t got rhythm. The optional practice should only be dependent on the captain and coach. The coach can say, ‘hey, you got 150 or you bowled 40 overs in the match, you don’t need to come to practice’. They should be the one giving the options, not the players. If it is left to the players, they will certainly say, ‘no, I will be staying in my room’,” said Gavaskar.
“That’s not what Indian cricket is. It’s an honour, privilege to be playing for India, and I counted the number of days they would be here; 57 days is what they will be here for. 25 days for five Tests, two days for PM’s XI match, so they got 30 days of off. They got one extra day in Perth, they are getting two days here. So my request to them is to please come here and practice.”
