Ravi Shastri slams India’s fielding standards

Despite putting up a big total of 208 on the board, India ended up losing the 1st T20I against Australia in Mohali.

India’s pace bowling was rightly criticised for lack of penetration.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel gave away 101 runs from eight overs which proved costly for India.

However, another big factor behind India’s loss was the pathetic fielding.

India dropped three catches, including that of the game-changer Cameron Green.

Former India coach, Ravi Shastri was unsparing in his criticism of the Indian fielding standards.

Shastri, who usually is full is praises for the Indian team, called a spade a spade and tore into India’s fielding calling it ‘sloppy’.

He pointed out that something drastic needs to change if India are to beat top teams moving forward.

“If you look at all the top Indian teams over the years, there is youth and experience. I find the youth missing here and hence the fielding.”

“If you look at the last five-six years, fielding wise, I think this side is no match to any of the top sides when it comes to fielding. And that can hit badly in big tournaments.”

“It means that as a batting side you have to get that 15-20 runs game after game, because if you look around the field, where is brilliance? There is no Jadeja. Where is that X-factor?” Shastri said.

Though Axar Patel bowled brilliantly, he made a mess of a simple regulation catch at deep mid-wicket when Cameron Green was on 42.

Next, KL Rahul put down another chance running in from long-off.

What’s more, Harshal Patel grassed a caught and bowled chance, while bowling to Mathew Wade when he was on 1.

This sealed India’s fate as Wade made an unbeaten 45 off 21 balls to see his side through.