You don’t change your game plan thinking its semi-final or final: Curtly Ambrose on India’s Trophy drought

Former legendary West Indies fast bowler Curtly Ambrose believes India should not have changed their game plan in the World Test Championship final. India has been the most consistent team in the major ICC events but they haven’t been able to cross the final hurdle.

India last won a big event back in 2013 when MS Dhoni led the team to Champions Trophy glory. Since then India hasn’t savoured success consistently in the major tournaments despite making it to the semi-finals and finals. India qualified for the final of 2014 T20 World Cup, semi-final of 2015 World Cup, final of Champions Trophy 2017 and semi-final of 2019 World Cup and now the final of the WTC but the silverware has eluded them.

The Virat Kohli-led team have failed to grab the crucial stages of the big match, which has led to their downfall. Ambrose stated that the Indian team should continue to do in the final what they have been doing right throughout the tournament to be successful in mega events.

Ambrose said on Curtly and Karishma show, “In the last 6-7 ICC events, Team India has failed in the finals or lost in the semi-finals. I am just wondering (why). Because they have been so successful. But when you get to those big occasions, they tend to fail on a consistent basis.

“Is it a situation where they change their game plan or they put themselves under pressure because of the occasion? If that is the case, then it is wrong. As a former cricketer (I can say), the things that you do to make you successful, to get you to where you are, you continue to do them and try to improve.”

Ambrose added about Team India’s approach: “You don’t change your game plan or style of play because it is the semi-final or final. That is their loss. You’ve got to keep doing what you have been doing all along, that brought you success.”

On the other hand, Ambrose added that the credit should be given to the New Zealand bowlers for unsettling the Indian batsmen. The Kiwis were able to skittle out the Indian team for a paltry score of 217 and 170 runs in both innings.

“You have to give New Zealand credit. They have got some fantastic bowlers in their line-up. They have got Southee, Boult and Wagner for company and Kyle Jamieson. These guys, when they get conditions that suit them, are more than a handful.

“And, they are led by a wonderful captain. I have got a lot of respect for Kane Williamson. He has led this team for years magnificently.”