India’s 24-run defeat to West Indies in the fourth T20I has raised questions about the team’s batting approach ahead of the series decider in Bengaluru. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has called for greater responsibility from the batters after the hosts failed to chase down a target of 248 in Hyderabad.
West Indies posted 247 for 3 in their 20 overs, powered by an unbeaten century from captain Shai Hope. India responded with 223 all out, falling short despite an aggressive start from Sanju Samson, who scored 56 off 23 balls.
The result levelled the five-match series at 2-2 and left India with one final opportunity to secure the series.
Gavaskar Questions India’s Batting Approach
Gavaskar expressed concern about India’s inability to turn promising starts into a successful chase. Speaking on JioStar, the former batter called for a more consistent contribution from the lineup, particularly when chasing a demanding total.
Samson’s quickfire innings gave India early momentum, but the hosts struggled to maintain the required scoring rate as wickets fell at regular intervals. The middle order was unable to build the partnerships needed to keep the chase on track.
For India, the issue was not simply the size of the target. Against an aggressive West Indies batting lineup, the margin for error was limited, making it important for the chasing side to preserve wickets while continuing to score.
Shai Hope and Keemo Paul Lead West Indies to Victory
West Indies set the tone with a commanding batting display. Hope’s unbeaten 102 anchored the innings, while the visitors maintained their attacking approach to finish on 247 for 3.
India’s bowlers struggled to contain the scoring during the middle and final overs, leaving the batters with a steep target.
The chase began positively through Samson, but West Indies found breakthroughs at crucial moments. Keemo Paul delivered the decisive spell, taking five wickets to bowl India out for 223 and secure a 24-run victory.
The performance highlighted West Indies’ ability to combine aggressive batting with timely wickets under pressure.
Bowling Concerns Remain for India
While the batting attracted attention after the defeat, India’s bowling performance also requires examination. Conceding nearly 250 runs placed considerable pressure on the chasing lineup before the innings began.
Gavaskar offered a more measured assessment of India’s inexperienced bowlers, with international exposure likely to be important to their development. However, the team will need better execution with its plans, particularly when facing power hitters during the closing overs.
India’s challenge will be to improve their bowling discipline without losing the attacking intent required in T20 cricket.
India vs West Indies 5th T20I: Series Decider
The fifth T20I is scheduled for October 17, 2026, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, with the series level at 2-2.
India will look to respond with a more disciplined performance, particularly when managing the middle overs of the chase. West Indies, meanwhile, will aim to carry the confidence gained from their successive victories into the deciding match.
For India, the priority will be to convert individual contributions into a collective batting effort. West Indies have demonstrated their ability to put the hosts under pressure, and another strong performance could see them finish the series on a high.
With the series on the line, the final T20I will provide India with an immediate opportunity to address the concerns raised by the Hyderabad defeat.
