Ravi Shastri: Defeat to South Africa might just be the shake-up India needed

Shastri indicated that the setback could lead to a reassessment of tactical calls and team balance ahead of the next matches. “It might also make them rethink their strategy as to the composition of the side going ahead,” he said.

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The Super-8 format leaves limited room for error, with each result carrying significant weight in determining semifinal qualification. Shastri pointed out that another loss would complicate India’s path.

India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav takes a breather after getting hit by a delivery from South Africa’s Lungi Ngidi during the T20 World Cup cricket match between India and South Africa in Ahmedabad. (AP Photo)

“They would have learned from the last experience that they’re not going to take things for granted because in the Super-8 if you lose one more (match), then you’re really putting yourself under serious pressure,” Shastri commented.

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With key fixtures still to come, the focus now shifts to execution and selection calls as the Men in Blue look to stabilize their campaign and strengthen their position in a tightly contested group. The coming matches will test the squad’s adaptability under pressure, particularly in responding to varied bowling attacks and adjusting strategies according to conditions and match situations.