London, June 27: Former England captain Michael Atherton has launched a scathing assessment of the Indian cricket team following its surprise 34-run defeat to Ireland in the opening T20I in Belfast, describing the reigning world champions as “flat-track bullies” after their batting line-up faltered on a seam-friendly surface.
India, led by new T20 captain Shreyas Iyer, were bowled out for 148 while chasing 183 at Stormont, handing Ireland their first-ever senior international victory over the Men in Blue.
Reacting to the result, Atherton said the defeat exposed long-standing weaknesses in India’s batting when confronted with conditions that offer significant assistance to bowlers.
The former England skipper argued that the Indian Premier League’s emphasis on high-scoring contests and batting-friendly pitches has contributed to the problem. According to Atherton, Indian batters continue to thrive on flat surfaces but struggle when faced with genuine pace-friendly or turning tracks.
He suggested that unless conditions in domestic competitions place greater value on quality bowling performances, Indian players could continue to encounter difficulties in overseas conditions where the ball moves appreciably.
Atherton also contrasted the current side with previous Indian squads, remarking that what was once considered an India “B” team would have been expected to win such bilateral contests comfortably. Instead, he said, the present team appeared ill-equipped to handle conditions that tested their technique and temperament.Addressing Indian supporters, Atherton urged fans to accept the defeat as a reflection of technical shortcomings rather than dismissing criticism. (Agencies)
