We have too many batters who play in the same gear, need more in Rinku and SKY mode: Virender Sehwag

In a scintillating display of cricketing prowess, the Indian cricket team kicked off their campaign at the Asian Games 2023 with a resounding victory over Nepal, securing their berth in the semifinals of the competition. The clash, however, was far from a one-sided affair, as Nepal put up a valiant fight, ultimately succumbing to India by a margin of 23 runs.

The standout performances with the willow in hand during India's innings were those of Yashasvi Jaiswal, who delivered a scorching century, and Rinku Singh, who concluded the innings with a blistering 15-ball 37. These stellar displays did not go unnoticed, prompting former Indian opener Virender Sehwag to take to social media with a pertinent observation regarding the Indian team's composition.

"I just feel we have too many batters who play in the same gear. Need to nurture more explosive players who can play top gear, especially in T20 cricket. Many more in the Rinku and SKY mode needed to become a dangerous side," Sehwag voiced his concerns on the ‘X’.

Here's Sehwag's latest tweet:

I just feel we have too many batters who play in the same gear. Need to nurture more explosive players who can play top gear, especially in T20 cricket. Many more in the Rinku and SKY mode needed to become a dangerous side.

— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) October 3, 2023

A hit and miss case for team India though they emerged victorious

Jaiswal's blazing century not only propelled India to a commanding total of 202 for four but also etched his name in the annals of Indian cricket history as the youngest T20I centurion for the nation, achieved in a remarkable 49-ball innings. While Nepal exhibited promise and fearlessness throughout the contest, their relative lack of experience ultimately proved to be their undoing, culminating in an innings total of 179 for 9. This outcome secured a place in the semifinals for Ruturaj Gaikwad's Indian side.

The plaudits extended to the Monty Desai-coached Nepalese team, whose spirited performance on the ground with smaller dimensions caught two Indian pacers, Arshdeep Singh (2/43) and Avesh Khan (3/32), off guard, as they conceded a combined total of 75 runs in their eight overs.