Former Indian cricketer Subramaniam Badrinath criticized head coach Gautam Gambhir for focusing too much on match-ups in team selections during the T20 World Cup 2026. Gambhir and the coaching staff have been heavily criticized for leaving all-rounder Axar Patel out of India’s opening Super Eight match against South Africa.
With the Proteas including three left-handers in their top five, the team management chose off-spinner Washington Sundar over Axar. However, this strategy did not pay off, as Sundar bowled only two overs and failed to take a wicket, leading to India’s 76-run loss.
“It’s acceptable to consider a batter’s past performances, but the coach should also look beyond the numbers. Identifying a player’s fitness and form is crucial, even if their stats don’t seem favorable. If it’s solely about numbers, anyone could do that job,” Badrinath said on YouTube.
“As a coach, you should leverage your experience at the highest level. Match-ups provide some information but shouldn’t dictate the whole strategy. Relying solely on them won’t work in sports,” he added.
Lakshmipathy Balaji supported Badrinath’s views, suggesting that team management should value a player’s attributes over strict match-up strategies. He highlighted the importance of experience and performance under pressure. Axar has been a reliable player for India in T20Is and offers versatility with both bat and ball.
“Team selection should not just be about match-ups but also consider personality and character. There are limited options in Cricket. What’s the issue with a left-arm spinner bowling to a left-hander? Has he never faced a left-hander before? In the same way, players in the top order haven’t scored runs, yet you maintain their confidence. Bowlers deserve that too,” Balaji stated on YouTube.
“Bowlers tend to face the brunt of these match-up theories. Batters don’t suffer even if they struggle against certain types of bowlers. Match-ups are often overrated, and Axar Patel brings a lot to the table. He can bat in different positions, is an excellent fielder, and understands the game well, making him valuable at any moment. Match-ups shouldn’t be a factor for such a talented player,” he added.
