India's diabolical performance in the third T20I against England has prompted former captain and head coach Anil Kumble to express huge concerns over the team's overall showing. Chasing a target of 202 in the 3rd T20I, India suffered a stunning batting collapse, getting bowled out for 76 runs at Trent Bridge and suffering a crushing 125-run defeat. The loss has also put India in a precarious situation as they now trail the five-match series 2-0. Kumble also lauded England's pace attack led by Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue, who consistently troubled the Indian batters, playing a major role in the team's win.
"It was an abject surrender by the Indian team. You don't expect a world champion side to cave in like that," Kumble said on JioStar.
"They bowled short, they bowled quick, and they kept the pressure on. The Indian batters needed to show more patience and application, but everyone just tried to attack instead of absorbing the pressure. Someone had to take responsibility and bat deep, but instead they went the aggressive route and paid the price," Kumble added on the show.
Kumble also pointed towards shortcomings in planning and decision-making, saying that the defeat reflected a lack of clarity in both preparation and match execution. Kumble was also critical of management's decision to promote Harshit Rana ahead of Shivam Dube in the third match.
"The Indian team has made too many changes to their lineup, and that needs to stop. As a new captain, you need to stick with your five bowlers. Batters will score runs, but bowlers win you matches," he said.
"In T20 cricket, you put your best batters upfront. You can't expect a number eight guy to win you a game by sending him ahead of a proven batter. That's not how things work in modern-day cricket," Kumble said.