The worst thing that has happened to cricket, according to Gambhir, is the introduction of two new balls for one-day international matches.
In an interview with R Ashwin on his YouTube channel, Gambhir discussed how finger spinners are no longer as efficient in these matches.
In response to criticism regarding the white ball’s inability to hold its colour for the entire 50 overs, a change was implemented in 2011.
Prior to the ICC introducing the use of two fresh balls from either end, the ball was changed after 34 overs with an old ball. This was an idea that the 1992 World Cup organizers had experimented with.
Gambhir, on the other hand, is totally against the idea. “He told Ashwin that the introduction of two new balls is the worst thing that has happened in cricket.”
“Whether it’s an off- or left-arm spinner, you’ve eliminated every finger spinner skill from the game.
“With two fresh balls and five fielders within, what is the expectation for a finger spinner to achieve on the surface and to be included in the playing eleven?”
Gambhir argued why this adjustment prevented finger-spinners who excelled in Test cricket from becoming major players in One-Day Internationals: Nathan Lyon and you, Ashwin, are two of the greatest finger spinners in the world. You guys had nothing to play with, which is why you didn’t play.
“With five fielders inside and on a flat track, you would be bowling with a 10-over new ball in the 20th over.
Additionally, there are power batters, large bats, short borders, and DRS on top of everything. It’s not a Nathan Lyon and you situation.
Promoting all types of bowlers who aspire to become finger and off spinners is the responsibility of the ICC.
Nobody would want to practice this art of bowling off spin or left-arm spin since they are aware that they have little chance of success in white-ball cricket.
It’s not a player’s fault, said Gambhir, adding that the ball discoloring was a manufacturing issue that needed to be resolved rather than a justification to start using two new balls.
You might as well switch manufacturers if the ball can’t be guaranteed to be in good condition for 50 overs. Two new balls should not be added because one ball cannot hold a color for 50 overs.
That is an issue with the manufacturer. “People suddenly realize that wrist spinners are the only ones who can take wickets during the middle innings when they discuss taking wickets.
Where is the art of bowling with real off-spin, or left-arm spin that can beat opponents both off the wicket and in the air, unless you have a carrom ball or a flicker?