New Delhi: Blaming only the batters for India’s Test series loss to New Zealand isn’t wise, said head coach Gautam Gambhir, who insisted it’s a collective responsibility and all underperformed leading to their first home loss in 12 years.
It snapped India’s run of 18 consecutive Test series victories at home, giving New Zealand their first win in India.
In the aftermath of such a debacle, poor performance of the batters have been blamed by many. But Gambhir doesn’t endorse that view.
“Everyone has the responsibility, I cannot say just the batters have let us down,” Gambhir said at a media interaction ahead of the third and final Test match that begins in Mumbai from Friday.
Despite the defeat, Gambhir said the home team isn’t thinking of fielding new players after disappointing defeats in Bengaluru and Pune.
“We are not in a situation where can think of that (giving chance to players who have not played),” the former India batter said.
No Rana in Mumbai
Gambhir also dismissed reports that suggested Harshit Rana was included in the squad and is set for Test debut.
“Harshit Rana is not part of the squad. He has just come here to prepare for the Australia tour, Abhishek (Nayar) made it clear yesterday. IPL retention has nothing to be spoken about, we have a Test match here.
“Everyone is available for selection, we will take a call tomorrow.”
The former left handed batter said the every player in the team were pained at the defeat and would use it as motivation in future.
“I am not going to sugarcoat that it is hurting. It should hurt and that will make us better. What is wrong in being in this position?
“I am sure this will push the youngsters to be better cricketers. If we have results like Kanpur, might as well have results like this and keep moving forward,” Gambhir said.
