Sunil Gavaskar Criticizes DLS Method After India’s Rain-Affected Defeat in 1st ODI vs Australia

Perth: Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has openly criticized the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method following India’s rain-curtailed defeat to Australia in the first ODI at Optus Stadium, Perth. Despite India scoring 136 runs for 9 wickets in 26 overs, the DLS method set Australia's revised target as 131 runs, which they comfortably chased in 21.1 overs. Gavaskar questioned the fairness and complexity of the DLS system, advocating for the adoption of a more equitable alternative used in domestic cricket.

Gavaskar Voices Concerns on DLS

Speaking exclusively to India Today, Gavaskar said, “I don’t think too many people understand that method but it’s been there for a long time.” He highlighted that the VJD method—developed by an Indian and currently employed in domestic cricket—could be a fairer alternative as it aims to balance the contest better during rain interruptions.

Gavaskar urged the cricketing authorities to seriously consider switching to or incorporating aspects of the VJD method at the international level. “Maybe that is something they need to look at and they need to push to make sure when a rain interruption takes place, both teams feel whatever target is given to you will be a lot fairer,” he added.

The Controversy in Perth

The 1st ODI was marred by four rain stoppages, which led to a reduced match of 26 overs per side. India’s innings was interrupted multiple times, making it difficult for the batsmen to build momentum on the bouncy pitch. Despite a fightback effort from KL Rahul (38 off 31 balls) and Axar Patel (31 off 38), India could only post 136 for 9.

Australia's target, reduced from India’s original score due to DLS calculations, stood at 131, a five-run advantage in a shortened match. This lowered target drew widespread criticism from fans, analysts, and experts who felt the revised target favored the team batting second.

Former India opener Aakash Chopra also condemned the DLS outcome, calling it “an injustice,” explaining how the reduced overs and wickets lost during India’s innings disadvantaged the team. Chopra emphasized that Australia knew the number of overs and target they needed to chase from the start of their innings, whereas India had to constantly adapt to changing conditions, further skewing fairness.

Gavaskar Backs Rohit and Kohli Despite the Loss

While criticizing the DLS method, Gavaskar expressed confidence in India’s batting greats Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who both returned to international cricket after a long hiatus but failed to make significant contributions in the match.

“Don’t be surprised if Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli score big in the next two games,” Gavaskar said. “They are coming back after a gap, so the more they play and practice now in the nets with some good throwdowns from the reserve bowlers, they will be back amongst the runs.”

He further suggested that once Kohli and Rohit find their form, India’s totals will rise back to the 300+ mark that the team is known for.

Looking Ahead

India’s defeat in Perth has put them under the pump in this three-match ODI series. The upcoming matches in Adelaide and Sydney will be critical in turning the tide. Meanwhile, the debate over the fairness of the DLS method in rain-affected matches is once again in the spotlight, with one of India’s greatest minds urging cricket authorities to revisit the system.

As India prepares for the next ODI, fans hope for improved batting performances and a fair contest regardless of weather interruptions.