Head coach Gautam Gambhir is worried about India’s batting after a crushing 244 run defeat against New Zealand in the fourth ODI at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui on November 13, 2026.
India’s batting line-up couldn’t cope with New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack and were all out for just 89 chasing a target of 334. The defeat showed India’s lack of understanding of conditions and questions about team preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Gambhir Says No Delivery Is Unplayable
Gambhir refused to use the difficult conditions as an excuse for India’s batting collapse in post match press conference. He praised Matt Henry’s bowling but said Indian batters had to find ways to counter it.
“There are no unplayable deliveries in international cricket. Matt Henry bowled in good areas but we should be able to negate that,” Gambhir said.
His comments were a reflection of the coaching staff’s belief that experienced international batters should be able to cope with different pitches and bowling conditions.
Henry was the pick of New Zealand's bowlers with career-best ODI figures of 6/27. He struck in the first over of India's innings to dismiss Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer.
India’s Batting Collapse Raises Concerns
89 was India’s lowest ever ODI score and one of the worst batting performances in recent memory as visitors struggled to build partnerships and lost wickets regularly.
Gambhir admitted that getting bowled out for around 90 runs was “obviously” concerning but added that problem wasn’t just in the fourth ODI.
“You’re always worried when you get bundled out for 90-odd. Why won’t I be? These are conditions that are going to be closest to what we might get during the World Cup,” he said.
The coach said India needed to change their approach against quality fast bowling (particularly when the ball is moving in good conditions).
2027 World Cup Preparations Become a Talking Point
The 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa is also a factor for India’s preparations. The tourney will be tough on visiting teams so batters need to be adaptable and disciplined technically.
Gambhir also mentioned India’s previous match (where they lost seven wickets) and said that losing wickets over and over again is “a problem”.
The coaching staff will therefore have to work out why the batting struggles are happening and what needs to be done before the global tournament.
New Zealand Keep the Series Alive
New Zealand put on an all-round performance to beat India by 244 runs. The hosts scored 333 in their 50 overs before dismissing India for 89 in 26.4 overs.
Will Young top scored with 125 for New Zealand, Matt Henry starred with the ball.
Despite losing the series India still lead 2-1 in the five ODI matches. The visitors have a chance to respond in the last match and finish strongly.
Gambhir’s comments make it clear that India’s batting will need serious work if they are to stand up against pace attacks in conditions like those expected at the 2027 World Cup.
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