Jos Buttler Questions India’s Concussion Substitute Tactics After Harshit Rana’s Impactful Performance

Jos Buttler Questions India’s Concussion Substitute Strategy

In a thrilling encounter during the fourth T20I in Pune, England captain Jos Buttler expressed his disagreement with India’s decision to utilize Harshit Rana as a concussion substitute for Shivam Dube. Dube, who had made a commendable 53 runs off 34 balls, was struck on the helmet by Jamie Overton in the 19.5th over, prompting the implementation of concussion protocols.
Buttler’s remarks came during the post-match press conference, where he stated, “We don’t agree with the concussion substitute. It’s not a like-for-like replacement.” His skepticism stemmed from Rana’s pivotal performance, where he claimed three crucial wickets, including that of Liam Livingstone. Buttler sarcastically quipped, “I think either Shivam Dube put on 25 mph with the ball or Harshit Rana has improved a lot with his batting.”
According to concussion regulations, a like-for-like replacement is permitted, and Rana, a medium pacer, fit that criterion when compared to Dube, who often plays a similar role as an impact player in the IPL. Indian bowling coach Morne Morkel clarified the situation, stating, “We only gave a name to the match referee. After that, it’s out of our hands. Harshit was having dinner when he was called in, and I thought he did an excellent job.”
India has been known to navigate the gray areas of concussion substitutes effectively. A similar strategy was employed during the 2020-21 series against Australia when Yuzvendra Chahal replaced Ravindra Jadeja.
In the end, India’s tactical move to leverage Dube’s batting prowess alongside Rana’s bowling capabilities proved successful, helping them clinch a 15-run victory. This incident raises intriguing questions about the use of concussion substitutes in cricket and whether the protocols are being adhered to strictly.
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