IND vs IRE: Hardik Pandya And Rahul Dravid Responsible For Debacle Against West Indies, Says Venkatesh Prasad

Former fast-bowler Venkatesh Prasad has hit out at Hardik Pandya and Rahul Dravid after Team India’s loss in the fifth and final T20I against West Indies on Sunday (August 13). Just a month after failing to secure a place in this year’s ODI World Cup, West Indies stunned Team India to clinch the five-match T20I series 3-2.

After suffering a big loss in the fourth T20I, the hosts came up with an impressive all-round display to inflict a series-clinching eight-wicket defeat over their fancied hosts. Romario Shepherd’s fine spell of four wickets helped West Indies restrict India to 165 for 9 on a good batting pitch. Suryakumar Yadav waged a lone battle for India, scoring 61 as other batsmen failed to deliver once again.

After sharing a 165-run stand in the fourth game, India openers Yashasvi Jaiswal (5) and Shubman (9) failed to give the team a good start in the series decider. Tilak Varma got the start once again before Roston Chase’s stunning catch ended his knock for 27. The likes of Sanju Samson (13) and Hardik Pandya (14) failed to get going too.

Set a target of 166 runs, West Indies chased it down in style. The Rovman Powell side crossed the finishing line in just 18 overs and by losing only two wickets. Opener Brandon King starred with the bat, scoring an unbeaten knock of 85 runs, and found good support from Nicholas Pooran (47) and Shai Hope (22*).

Venkatesh Prasad is furious with Team India:

Soon after Team India lost the fifth T20I, Venkatesh Prasad took to X to vent his frustration. The former India pacer, who never shies away from speaking his mind on the social media platform, responded to a fan’s question after the latter asked for his views on the India captain and the team management.

In reply, Venkatesh Prasad straightaway stated that Hardik Pandya and Rahul Dravid are responsible for the debacle. He also took a dig at Team India’s love for the word ‘process’ and rely on it after almost every loss. He also said that there is no consistency in selection either, posting:

“They are responsible for the debacle and need to be accountable. Process and such words are misused now. MS meant it, guys now just use the word. There is no consistency in selection, random stuff happening too much.”

They are responsible for the debacle and need to be accountable. Process and such words are misused now. MS meant it, guys now just use the word. There is no consistency in selection, random stuff happening too much https://t.co/jJhUgsd5KA

— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) August 13, 2023