Indian cricket team’s head coach Gautam Gambhir executed a game-changing strategy during the third T20I against South Africa on Sunday, significantly tilting the match in India’s favor. The Indian bowlers dominated South Africa, who struggled to set a formidable total. As South Africa’s batting line-up aimed to capitalize on the final over, Gambhir surprising sent a message via Sanju Samson to captain Suryakumar Yadav, suggesting they hand the final over to Kuldeep Yadav instead of Hardik Pandya. This unexpected decision paid immediate dividends, as Kuldeep secured two vital wickets, leading to South Africa being bowled out for a mere 117 runs.
In the aftermath of India’s seven-wicket victory, Suryakumar Yadav reflected on his personal form, acknowledging his current struggle with runs while expressing confidence in regaining his touch. He scored just 12 runs in the match but emphasized that he has been performing well in practice. “I’m trying everything in my control and when the game comes, the runs will come,” he commented during the post-match presentation.
Following a previous 51-run defeat in New Chandigarh, Suryakumar highlighted the team’s focus on returning to fundamental techniques and strategies ahead of the match in Dharamsala. He noted, “The thing is, I’ve been batting beautifully in the nets,” and stressed the importance of a disciplined approach from the bowlers, which played a crucial part in their comfortable win.
As India now leads the series 2-1 in the five-match series, Suryakumar noted that securing a victory in Lucknow on Wednesday would clinch the series for them. He remarked on the importance of enjoying the current win while also preparing for the next match, revealing the team’s intent to build on this momentum as they move forward. The match served as a testament to the team’s ability to bounce back and highlighted Gambhir’s impactful coaching decisions.