"Don't Jump to Conclusions": Irfan Pathan Defends Gambhir Over Ishan Kishan's Batting Order
Irfan Pathan slams critics for targeting Gautam Gambhir after Ishan Kishan batted lower in the 1st T20I, revealing a hidden injury.
Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has stepped forward to defend head coach Gautam Gambhir following a wave of criticism regarding the batting order in the first T20I against New Zealand. The controversy erupted when wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan was slotted much lower in the order than usual, leading many fans and critics to question Gambhir's tactical decisions.
The Truth Behind the Batting Shift
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Pathan revealed that the decision to move Kishan down the order was not a tactical whim but a necessity due to a fitness issue. He clarified that Kishan was dealing with a "niggle" during the opening match, which forced the management's hand.
"So, Ishan Kishan had a niggle during the first T20, which is why he batted lower down the order. But everyone was quick to go after @GautamGambhir for changing the batting order," Pathan wrote.
Pathan expressed frustration over the current climate of criticism surrounding the head coach, suggesting that attacking Gambhir has become a trend. He urged the public to seek the full story before passing judgment, warning that the rush for social media "views" and "numbers" often leads to unfair attacks that can hurt individuals.
Injury Confirmed: Kishan Ruled Out of 2nd T20I
The validity of Pathan's claims was soon backed by an official update from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The board confirmed that Ishan Kishan has been ruled out of the second T20I against New Zealand. The 28-year-old left-hander is suffering from a low-grade right adductor strain sustained during the first match.
India's batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, had previously hinted at this during a media interaction, noting that a groin niggle made it unlikely for Kishan to feature in the second encounter at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.
Kishan's Struggle in the Opener
During the first T20I, where India chased a daunting target of 226, Kishan came to the crease at No. 5. However, hampered by his injury, he was unable to make an impact, scoring just one run before being dismissed by New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner.
India Leads the Series
Despite the injury blow to Kishan, India enters the second T20I with a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. The victory in the opener was fueled by several standout performances:
- Sanju Samson: Set the tone with a brilliant 67 off 33 balls.
- Naman Dhir: Finished the game in style with an unbeaten 42 off just 15 deliveries.
- Shreyas Iyer: The captain contributed a steady 42 off 28 balls.
The chase was a response to a massive New Zealand total of 225/4, their highest ever home T20I score, powered by Glenn Phillips' unbeaten 82 and Finn Allen's 45.
What's Next for Team India?
While Kishan misses the second T20I, he remains part of the squad for the subsequent five-match ODI series. India's extensive tour of New Zealand continues with five T20Is, followed by five ODIs and two Test matches.