New Chandigarh, October 3, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India captain Shubman Gill expressed satisfaction with his team’s 2-1 series victory over the West Indies but acknowledged that fielding and death-overs bowling remain key areas requiring improvement after India suffered a five-wicket defeat in the third and final ODI on Saturday.
Batting first, India posted an imposing 351/7, powered by a 137-run partnership for the second wicket between Rohit Sharma, who scored 92, and Ruturaj Gaikwad, who contributed 57. KL Rahul then delivered a career-best ODI performance, smashing an unbeaten 129 off 87 balls.
However, the total proved insufficient as West Indies captain Shai Hope struck an unbeaten 162 at a strike rate of 113.29 to guide his side to its highest-ever successful run chase in ODI cricket. The victory also marked the West Indies’ first ODI win over India since 2023.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Gill said he was pleased with several aspects of the team’s performance but felt India needed greater clarity in their approach during the death overs.
He noted that India had fallen four overs behind and felt the shortened match affected their chances of taking the contest to the final over. Gill also highlighted uncertainty over whether the team should attack or defend, particularly when deciding field placements in the closing stages.
Gill explained that he held back the remaining overs of wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav because of uncertainty over the availability of Gurnoor Brar, who was struggling with cramps. He wanted to keep Kuldeep’s wicket-taking ability available for the closing stages.
Reflecting on his early dismissal to Jayden Seales, Gill said he was disappointed but felt there was little more he could have done against that delivery.
Looking ahead to India’s upcoming assignments, including a five-match ODI series in New Zealand in November, Gill stressed the need to raise fielding standards. He revealed that India had dropped around six or seven catches during the series, calling it a concern ahead of the World Cup.
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