Parthiv Patel suggested one change in India’s playing XI for the fourth T20I against England. Read
East India wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel has demanded a significant change in India’s playing XI ahead of the fourth T20I against England, suggesting the inclusion of an experienced star batsman after the guests’ disappointing batting collapse in Nottingham. After India were all out for just 76 runs while chasing a target of 202 in the third T20I, Parthiv believes a new approach in the batting order can help the team bounce back and avoid another shock in the five-match series.
Parthiv Patel suggests a change while questions India’s left-heavy batting combination
India’s batting line-up faced intense scrutiny after the crushing 125-run defeat, which saw many of the batsmen struggle against England’s fast bowling attack. Speaking on JioHotstar, Parthiv pointed out the imbalance created by the presence of too many left-handed batsmen in the top order. He argued that the current combination allows opposition bowlers to constantly adjust to plans and suggested that India should Sanju Samson should be included so that more diversity can be brought.
“I think he should play because we have been saying from the first match that there cannot be six left-handed batsmen in the top seven, in the top eight in this game, because Harshit Rana came in at No. 7,” Parthiv said.
According to the former India opener, this change will not only improve the right-left balance but will also provide more flexibility against the England bowling attack, which completely dominated the third match.
Supporting Samson’s return, Parthiv admitted that the move would require India to sacrifice an all-round option. He suggested that Shivam Dubey should be kept out, even if it impacts the team’s bowling resources. Dube did not have a memorable performance in Nottingham, scoring only two runs in four balls and came in at number 8. With the ball, he bowled only one over, taking no wickets without conceding 10 runs. Parthiv admitted that replacing Dube would reduce India’s bowling depth, but felt that a stronger batting combination would compensate.
“If I am in that dressing room and I have to make a team, the focus will be on Tilak Varma, but he is the vice-captain of India. So I would like you to play Sanju Samson in place of Shivam Dube. Then there will be no sixth bowling option. However, you will go with the five main bowlers,” Parthiv said.
Change in batting order for star player
Parthiv also suggested a change in Samson’s role if he returns to the XI. Instead of using him as an opener, he suggested that the Kerala batsman be placed in the middle order to strengthen India’s main batting unit. He envisioned Samson to bat at number 3, while Ishan Kishan and captain Shreyas Iyer Will adjust his positioning to create a more balanced lineup.
“You have to have Sanju Samson bat in the middle. He can also come in at No. 3. Then Ishan Kishan can come in the middle, and Shreyas Iyer can come in at No. 5. You can keep Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, and Shreyas Iyer between No. 3 to 5. India can think in this direction,” Parthiv added.
With England riding high after their impressive win, India now face a crucial selection decision ahead of the fourth T20I. It will be interesting to see if the team management follows Parthiv’s advice and brings Samson back into the team, which could be one of the biggest talking points ahead of the crucial encounter.
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