India finished the five‑match T20I series against the West Indies with a 2‑2 draw after the final in Bengaluru was called off by rain.
Gavaskar, the former captain, bluntly declared that Hardik Pandya is irreplaceable, insisting that India must stop hunting for a direct substitute and instead build a solid bowling core.
He urged the selectors to field at least four specialist bowlers, relegating all‑rounders to the fifth and sixth bowling options. The idea is to avoid the temptation of padding the batting order at the expense of attack.
In the abandoned final, Naman Dhir’s cameo—an unbeaten 24 off six balls—illustrated the kind of all‑rounder India needs. Gavaskar also noted that Abhishek Sharma’s inconsistent batting, though understandable in a high‑strike‑rate game, underscored the need for reliable bowlers.
With the series over, India’s focus shifts to the upcoming T20 World Cup. A stronger bowling lineup will be crucial if they hope to climb the rankings and secure victories in the tournament’s high‑pressure matches.