New Delhi, Nov 10 (NationPress) India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir emphasized that the team does not enter matches focusing on averages or strike rates, but rather on the impact each player can deliver in specific scenarios. His comments followed India’s recent 2-1 T20I triumph over Australia.

In a video interview released by the BCCI on Monday, Gambhir discussed Team India's versatile and adaptable batting lineup in T20Is and the daring strategy embraced by the players.

“This philosophy has been in place since I assumed the role of head coach. From Sri Lanka to the present, it has remained unchanged. Batting orders are often overrated, except for the openers, who are fixed. The rest is fluid because in T20 cricket, it’s not the runs that count; it’s the impact. Many people confuse the batting order with runs and impact. In T20 cricket, runs and impact are distinct; it’s all about making an impact, with only 120 balls and every ball being pivotal.

“We aim for maximum impact, which is why we maintain a flexible batting order. Our goal is to play without the constraints of averages and strike rates. We prioritize the potential impact of players in various situations. This focus is crucial for our T20 squad as the format continues to develop. As coaches, we must stay ahead of the game. The most significant aspect is that our young players have embraced this philosophy, and we hope they continue to adapt and grow,” Gambhir stated during the interview on bcci.tv.

India competed against Australia in three ODIs and five T20Is, losing the 50-over series 2-1 while winning the T20 series by the same margin. Reflecting on the team’s performances, Gambhir noted that while individual achievements can be recognized, a series loss is never something to celebrate.

“I firmly believe that individual performances, while commendable, are secondary. I can appreciate them, but ultimately, we lost the one-day series. That’s the reality. As a coach, I cannot endorse celebrating a series loss. As players, we can applaud individual efforts, but as a coach, it is my duty to ensure that our nation and our team never celebrate defeats. We represent our country. Yes, the T20 series was distinct, and we secured the victory, which is positive, but there’s still much to learn. We are not where we aspire to be in three months, as our focus extends beyond series wins to the World Cup,” he added.