Irfan Pathan defends Gautam Gambhir's decision on Ishan Kishan batting order
Pathan asks critics to consider injury context before questioning Gambhir's tactical choices in the T20I series.
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan urged fans not to question Gautam Gambhir's decisions after Ishan Kishan batted at number five rather than his usual number three position in the first T20I against New Zealand. Pathan said the move was influenced by Kishan's groin strain rather than selection strategy.
Kishan sustained a low-grade right adductor strain during the opening match and was subsequently ruled out of the second T20I. BCCI confirmed the injury and stated that the medical team continues to monitor his progress.
Kumar Kushagra was added to the squad as injury cover while the 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi earned a place in the playing XI. Kishan had scored one run off three balls before being dismissed by Mitchell Santner in the series opener.
CricHubb Take
The injury-forced reshuffle reveals how thin India's depth is at the top of the order when established players are unavailable for even a single match.