Ajinkya Rahane gives strong reality check to Gautam Gambhir after New Zealand defeat, says ‘If you are…’

India’s veteran batter Ajinkya Rahane has given blunt opinion about Team India in the ODI format after series defeat against New Zealand at home. He also delivered a strong reality check to Gautam Gambhir and highlighted the flaws within his approach.

This is the second time in less than two years where New Zealand has over powered India. First it was the home Test series defeat at home in 2024 and now ODI series defeat in 2026. Following this, Rahane highlighted that India has more reliance on the all-rounders and this has weakened the bowling attack. He mentioned that the struggle India is facing has stemmed from lack of clarity and role security for players.

“See, there will be tough questions. India lost five ODIs in the last nine. And that’s the reason: too many changes. Again, that’s why I said: you are looking at the World Cup, where players actually need that security, that clarity frommanagement. If you are going to play certain players in that format, it’s always about clarity,” Rahane said on Cricbuzz.

“So yes, tough questions will be asked, which is very natural, I feel, because especially the fans, the Indian cricket is so connected. Everyone wants India to do well, India to win thematch, India to win the series, especially in India. Playing against New Zealand, which was probably the New Zealand A or B team, due respect to all the players. But expectations were there that we all thought that India would win easily, probably 3-0,” he added.

“But the way New Zealand has played was amazing. So there will be questions, tough questions. But I feel from the Indians’ point of view, they just need to follow the process. Just see which are the players you are going to bag them because six months down the line, you’re going to play your ODI cricket. You have time. After T20, there’s nothing at all,” said Rahane.

“Probably after IPL, you’re going to play ODI. So it’s always about finding your right thing, right players, right combination, and just bag them,” he added.

Rahane highlighted that decision like playing KL Rahul at No.6 also haven’t yielded positive results. However, he now believes that a significant break in ODIs will work for the team as they can regroup and come with fresh mindset again.