Team India’s Confusing Combinations Cost Them Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Sanjay Bangar

Former Head Coach Highlights Poor Team Selection and Reactive Approach as Key Reasons Behind Series Defeat

New Delhi [India], January 8: Former Indian head coach Sanjay Bangar has expressed concerns over Team India’s squad combinations during the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, describing the management’s approach as “reactive rather than proactive.”

Speaking on Star Sports, Bangar pointed out the confusion caused by the inclusion of Nitish Kumar Reddy alongside Ravindra Jadeja or Washington Sundar in the playing XI.

“Nitish Reddy’s unexpected performance put the team in a dilemma. The combination of Nitish Reddy with Washington Sundar or Ravindra Jadeja created confusion. When there is an in-form player, it’s hard to drop him. The team management seemed to react as the series progressed rather than being proactive. On those pitches, decisions should have been made based on the immediate requirements. A more proactive approach could have resulted in better team combinations,” Bangar stated.

Individual Performances Reflect Inconsistent Planning

All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy delivered an impressive performance with both bat and ball, scoring 298 runs in five matches at an average of 37.25, including a century in the Boxing Day Test. He also took five wickets with best bowling figures of 2/32.

However, seasoned all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja struggled with both bat and ball, managing only 135 runs at an average of 27.00 and taking just four wickets in three matches at an average of 54.50.

Similarly, Washington Sundar failed to make a significant impact, scoring 114 runs across six innings at an average of 22.80 and claiming only three wickets at an average of 38.67.

Series Outcome and Road Ahead

India began the series with a historic win in Perth but failed to maintain their momentum, eventually losing the series 1-3. This marked Australia’s first Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumph in a decade, their last victory being in the 2014-15 series.

The final Test in Sydney highlighted India’s struggles, as their batting lineup crumbled under pressure and Australia chased down a modest target of 162 runs to secure a six-wicket victory.

Focus on Champions Trophy 2025

Looking ahead, India will aim to redeem themselves in the upcoming Champions Trophy, set to return after seven years. The tournament offers a chance for India to add another ICC title to their cabinet, especially after their T20 World Cup success in Barbados.

The Champions Trophy kicks off with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi on February 19, followed by India taking on Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20.

As India prepares for these challenges, Bangar’s insights serve as a crucial reminder for the team management to adopt a proactive approach and ensure balanced squad selections for future tournaments.