‘Dube Doesn’t Bowl, Can’t Field…’: Hanuma Vihari’s Explosive Swipe at Gautam Gambhir Sparks Fresh Selection Controversy After India’s T20 Disaster

Team India‘s disappointing run in the recent T20I series against Ireland and England has intensified scrutiny on head coach Gautam Gambhir, with criticism now extending beyond fans and former cricketers.

After enduring a winless tour under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, India returned home with serious questions surrounding its team combinations, player selections, and overall strategy. The Men in Blue failed to register a single victory across the tour, losing six matches, while one game was washed out due to rain.

The poor results have triggered widespread debate over the direction of the T20 side as preparations continue for upcoming ICC tournaments.

Hanuma Vihari Questions Team Selections

Adding fuel to the discussion, out-of-favour Indian batter Hanuma Vihari publicly criticised Gambhir’s selection decisions, alleging that favouritism has influenced the playing XI.

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Vihari questioned the continued inclusion of certain players despite underwhelming performances, making a pointed remark that quickly grabbed attention across the cricketing community.

“Dube doesn’t bowl, can’t field. No idea why Sundar is continuing,” Vihari said while expressing his frustration over India’s team selections.

His comments have reignited conversations about whether performances are being given enough importance while selecting the squad.

Selection Debate Grows Louder

The criticism largely revolves around the inclusion of Shivam Dube and Washington Sundar, two players whose recent performances have come under the spotlight.

While Dube has been regarded as a powerful middle-order batter, critics argue that his limited bowling contribution and fielding standards reduce the team’s overall balance. Similarly, Sundar’s place in the side has also been questioned by several observers following a series of inconsistent displays.

Although the team management has continued to back both players, the disappointing results have made every selection decision a subject of public debate.

Pressure Mounting on Gambhir

Since taking charge as India’s head coach, Gambhir has promised to build an aggressive and fearless side. However, consecutive setbacks in overseas conditions have increased pressure on both the coaching staff and selectors.

With major international tournaments approaching, the management may now face difficult decisions regarding team combinations and player roles.

Despite the criticism, Gambhir has consistently maintained that long-term planning sometimes requires backing players through difficult phases. Whether the coaching staff sticks with the current squad or opts for significant changes remains to be seen.

India Looking for a Strong Comeback

The recent losses have highlighted areas that require immediate improvement, particularly in batting consistency, bowling execution, and fielding standards.

As India prepares for its next international assignments, the spotlight will remain firmly on Gautam Gambhir, Shreyas Iyer, and the selection committee. Every squad announcement is now likely to be closely analysed as the team aims to bounce back from one of its toughest T20 tours in recent times.