For controversial substitution, Sunil Gavaskar hits back at India Cricket Team
The fourth T20I between India and England in Pune was marred by controversy following ShivamDube’s substitution as a concussion replacement for HarshitRana. Dube, who scored a crucial fifty, was hit on the helmet by a bouncer from Jamie Overton. Despite batting until the end of India’s innings, he was replaced by Rana, who made his T20I debut and took three wickets, helping India secure a 15-run victory and clinch the series 3-1.
Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar criticized the decision, stating that Dube was clearly not concussed since he batted after being struck. He argued that allowing a concussion substitute in this case was inappropriate and that Rana’s role as a specialist bowler did not align with Dube’s all-rounder position. Gavaskar emphasized that England had every right to be upset over the decision.
England captain Jos Buttler echoed these sentiments, expressing dissatisfaction with the ruling and questioning the legitimacy of the like-for-like replacement. The incident has sparked widespread debate within the cricketing community regarding ICC concussion rules, with many former players voicing their concerns about the fairness of such substitutions. The final match of the series is set to take place at Wankhede Stadium on Sunday.