As India gears up for their three-match Test series against New Zealand starting Wednesday, head coach Gautam Gambhir has reaffirmed the team’s commitment to high-risk batting strategies in the longer format of the game. Following a thrilling performance in their last Test against Bangladesh, where they set records for the fastest 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 runs, Gambhir emphasized the importance of aggressive play.
In that rain-affected match at Kanpur’s Green Park Stadium, India declared at 285/9 and swiftly chased down a target of 95 runs in just 17.2 overs, sealing the series 2-0. “We want our players to be aggressive and play their natural game,” Gautam Gambhir stated. “Why should we hold them back? If they can score 400 or 500 runs in a day, why not let them? We want to entertain the fans and move the game forward.”
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Gambhir draws parallels between Test cricket and T20, suggesting that the high-risk, high-reward mentality should apply to both formats. He acknowledged that while there will be days when the team might be bundled out for low scores, the focus will remain on encouraging players to take risks. “We will continue to back our players to play aggressively,” he explained. “It’s about high risk and high reward, even if that comes with high failure.”
Despite his commitment to an aggressive style, Gautam Gambhir emphasized the need for adaptability. He reflected on earlier comments made during the Chennai Test, where he stated, “We want to be a team that can score 400 runs in a day and bat for two days if necessary to draw.” This adaptability, he insists, is crucial for growth in Test cricket. “If you play the same way in every situation, then it’s not growth,” he cautioned.
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Gautam Gambhir expressed confidence in his players’ abilities to tackle various match situations without compromising the team’s aggressive ethos.
“We have many individuals in the dressing room who can bat for two days if needed,” he said. “The primary goal is to win the match. If we find ourselves in a situation where a draw is the best option, then that will come second or third. Our focus remains on playing natural, attacking cricket.”
In summary, Gambhir’s approach encapsulates a blend of aggression and adaptability, aiming to redefine how Indian cricket approaches the longest format while still respecting the nuances that Test cricket demands.
