Overview
- De Villiers said he agrees to a certain extent with Gautam Gambhir’s view, calling ODI batting orders overrated beyond the opening pair but warning there is a fine line.
- He cautioned that teams cannot play around too much with roles, describing three segments—top three, middle order from four to six, and tailenders—and encouraging creativity only within that structure.
- Gambhir had argued after India’s 2-1 ODI win over South Africa that white-ball batting positions should be flexible except for the openers.
- Recent selections have reflected that approach, with Ruturaj Gaikwad used at No. 4 and Washington Sundar deployed as a floater in different situations.
- De Villiers praised India’s limited-overs form, noting 27 wins in their last 31 T20Is and a 101‑run victory to open the current T20I series against South Africa.