India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir says the team is prepared to handle the risk involved in an attacking, aggressive approach to T20I strategy, something that could see them willing to take the risks associated with the gamble. After a 150-run record victory in the fifth and final T20I of the five-match series against England at Wankhede Stadium, Gambhir’s comments followed India’s comprehensive 4-1 series win over England.
The victory was primarily comprehended by Abhishek Sharma as he smashed a remarkable 135 off 54 balls to become the second fastest T20I century by India. All this was part of Gambhir’s intention — India’s total of 247 runs (their fourth-highest in a T20I) was an aggressive knock, just like this one.
Gambhir was of the opinion that the team’s philosophy is to sit beyond selflessly and fearlessly, to play a brand of cricket that is unapologetically aggressive. “We want to play cricket not to fear losing a game.” Reflecting the new team approach, however, to play high-risk high-reward cricket, we are willing to. This style,” explained Gautam Gambhir, “will, at times, lead to rubouts, such as getting bundled out for lower totals like 120, 130 and that is something that does not deter him.” He said that also means you won’t collect those big rewards unless and until you don’t play that high-risk cricket and also urged that you play that way till you win big tournaments because ‘you won’t get whatever you want if you don’t play that high-risk cricket’.
India will play England in a three-match ODI series from February 6, after which they will campaign in the Champions Trophy where they will play their opening match against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20. According to Gambhir, he refuses to change his fearless approach irrespective of the outcome of these upcoming fixtures.
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