Gautam Gambhir defends flexible batting order after India loss

India's head coach Gautam Gambhir defended the decision to send Shivam Dube to bat at number four during the second T20 International against West Indies in Ranchi. The decision, which saw Dube replace captain Shreyas Iyer in the batting order, drew criticism after Dube scored only 7 runs off 10 balls.

Gambhir emphasized that the team intends to maintain flexibility in the batting lineup, stating that in T20 cricket, only the openers should be permanent fixtures. He noted that the team has utilized Dube in similar roles previously, including during the World Cup.

Despite a strong total of 249/5, fueled by Sanju Samson's 82 and Ishan Kishan's 43, India lost the match. West Indies successfully chased the target in 18.3 overs, led by Shai Hope's 102 and Sherfane Rutherford's 84, leveling the five-match series at 1-1. Gambhir also highlighted the need for the team to improve their ability to defend scores on flat, dew-affected pitches.