Hyderabad: West Indies (247/3 in 20 overs) defeated India (223 in 19.3 overs) by 24 runs in the fourth T20 International here on Wednesday, levelling the five-match series 2-2 and hitting back at the world champions. However, batting legend Sunil Gavaskar was furious over the conduct of one of the Caribbean team’s fast bowlers.
Gavaskar was particularly angry with experienced West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph for repeatedly targeting India’s left-arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh, who bats at No. 10, despite the Indian pacer suffering a shoulder injury while batting. Gavaskar questioned Joseph’s sportsmanship.
The incident occurred towards the end of India’s chase of a 248-run target, when defeat was almost inevitable. Joseph bowled a short delivery that struck Arshdeep on the shoulder.
Joseph’s Bodyline Bowling Against Arshdeep
At that stage, India needed 30 runs off the final three balls, an impossible task. Nevertheless, Arshdeep continued batting despite being struck on the shoulder. Even after receiving assistance from the physiotherapist, he refused to abandon his innings. Captain Shreyas Iyer also asked him to return, but Arshdeep continued to face the deliveries.
Joseph then bowled another delivery aimed at Arshdeep. The injured batter was attempting to play a shot, leaving all three stumps exposed. Despite having a clear opportunity to target the stumps, Joseph once again bowled in a manner that risked hitting Arshdeep.
Arshdeep failed to connect for a boundary with his shot, but the wide delivery raced past the boundary rope. India were awarded one run for the wide and four additional runs as byes.
What Did an Angry Gavaskar Say?
Sunil Gavaskar was in the commentary box and was visibly upset by Joseph’s conduct. He questioned the West Indies fast bowler, saying, “Shamar, why are you targeting Arshdeep? All three stumps are clearly exposed, so why are you attacking Arshdeep with the ball?”
Arshdeep eventually retired hurt because he could no longer bear the shoulder pain. India’s innings ended at 223, handing the hosts a 24-run defeat.
Shai Hope Named Player of the Match
West Indies captain, opener and wicketkeeper Shai Hope, who scored his fourth century on this tour of India, was named Player of the Match. Hope remained unbeaten on 102 off 50 balls, hitting nine sixes and four fours.
Shamar Joseph conceded 47 runs without taking a wicket. However, fellow fast bowler Keemo Paul delivered an impressive performance, claiming five wickets for 41 runs. Spinner Gudakesh Motie picked up two wickets.