Depth in batting is an area we're trying to address: India head coach Rahul Dravid

Indian head coach Rahul Dravid reflected on the batting depth of the team.

In a gripping finale to the 5-match T20I series against the West Indies, India fell short of victory, losing the series 3-2. Despite a strong comeback in the third and fourth matches, India couldn’t outshine the hosts in the series decider at Central Broward Park. The match showcased team’s persistent batting depth challenge, which ultimately hindered their ability to score more effectively.

In a high-pressure encounter, India batsmen faced an uphill battle against West Indies. While the Indian side boasted notable talents, including Suryakumar Yadav’s impressive 61 off 45 balls and a notable 27 off 18 from Tilak Varma. The hosts easily chased down the target of 166 with two overs remaining.

‘Certainly a series that has shown us that we need to build on that depth’: says coach Rahul Dravid

Reflecting on India’s performance, coach Rahul Dravid spoke candidly about the team’s challenges and areas for improvement in the post match press-conference. He pointed out, “Our squad (for the World Cup) will be a little different from what we have here. In terms of the squad that we had here, it didn’t allow us the flexibility to have the combination to allow us to make the changes. Going forward, we will have to look at certain areas where we can get better.” Dravid stressed the need to find depth in India’s batting lineup without compromising the potency of their bowling attack.

Rahul Dravid emphasized, “Finding depth in our batting is an area that we are trying to address and do as best as we possibly can. But that’s certainly an area that we need to look at, how we can not weaken our bowling attack but have a certain depth in our batting that can go deeper. As the game is going on, the scores are becoming bigger and bigger.” He acknowledged the evolving nature of the game and the increasing significance of runs in modern cricket.

Coach Rahul Dravid underlined the disparity in batting depth by pointing out, “If you look at the West Indies, they had Alzarri Joseph coming at No 11. He can hit a mean ball. There are sides that have depth, we have challenges on that front. We need to work on that. It’s certainly a series that has shown us that we need to build on that depth.”

Dravid acknowledged that some teams have a more balanced and capable batting lineup, even in the lower order. In contrast, India face challenges in this area, indicating that they lack the same level of depth.

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