Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik strongly criticized the Indian team management during the third T20I against England after fast bowler Harshit Rana was promoted in the batting order ahead of Shivam Dube. The unexpected move came as India suffered a dramatic collapse in the powerplay, eventually posting one of their lowest T20I totals.
India’s Batting Order Decision Draws Criticism
India’s strategy during the third T20I at Trent Bridge came under scrutiny after the team management, led by Gautam Gambhir, opted to send Harshit Rana to bat before all-rounder Shivam Dube.
The decision followed a disastrous start to India’s innings, with the batting lineup collapsing inside the first six overs against England.
Five Wickets Fall Inside the Powerplay
India’s top order failed to withstand England’s bowling attack, losing five wickets during the powerplay.
Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel were all dismissed within the opening six overs, leaving the visitors in serious trouble.
Instead of sending the experienced Shivam Dube to stabilize the innings, the team management promoted fast bowler Harshit Rana.
Also read: Ben Stokes Announces International Cricket Retirement
Dinesh Karthik Questions the Move
Commentating during the match, Dinesh Karthik expressed disbelief over the decision and questioned the reasoning behind holding back an established batter.
He said:
“Harshit Rana coming to bat before Shivam Dube, are you kidding me? I don’t even think Harshit Rana has ever batted in the powerplay, even in domestic cricket,”
Karthik further added:
“You can get the left-right combination working in T20 cricket, but only up to a point. Not Harshit Rana ahead of Shivam Dube.”
Also read: Virat Kohli Includes Karan Aujla’s ‘Winning Speech’ in Pre-Match Routine
India Register One of Their Lowest T20I Scores
India’s innings never recovered from the early collapse.
The visitors were bowled out for just 76 at Trent Bridge, recording their second-lowest total in T20I history.
The result handed England an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.
India Still Searching for First T20I Win Under Shreyas Iyer
Following the defeat, India remain without a T20I victory under the captaincy of Shreyas Iyer.
England’s victory ensured the home side sealed the series with one match still to play.
Conclusion
India’s batting collapse and the decision to promote Harshit Rana ahead of Shivam Dube became one of the biggest talking points of the third T20I against England. Dinesh Karthik’s on-air criticism reflected the surprise surrounding the tactical call as India were dismissed for just 76, allowing England to secure an unbeatable lead in the series.
