India on Sunday went through a heart-wrenching defeat in the first T20I against Australia at Vizag. With 14 required to win off the final over, the Aussie tailenders snatched away the victory from India’s jaw to lead the series 1-0. Though the game slipped away from India’s hands by a whisker, spinner Krunal Pandya believes that the men-in-blue haven’t lost the momentum with which they fought till the last ball.
“It was a great bowling effort. Everyone chipped in and we almost defended the low total. We just have to be more cautious about our batting," said Krunal ahead of the second T20I against Australia on Wednesday.
“Tomorrow is a very important game as we are 0-1 down but I would not say that we have lost momentum. We lost the other night but we are not losing consecutive games. I am sure we will do well tomorrow,” said the 27-year-old.
Asked if he would like to bat higher up the order than no. 7, where he batted in the last game, Krunal said, “Honestly, I am not thinking about where I want to bat. I am just focused on what is in my hands irrespective of the situation. I want to contribute with both bat and ball.”
Speaking about the bowling combination for the decider, Krunal said it would be nice to have some part-time options in the team.
“All the five bowlers who played are all quality bowlers. All are match winners on a given day. If you have options it is good but whatever is there we are fine with that,” he said.
Earlier in the day, the Indian team had an extensive training session with skipper Virat Kohli leading from the front. He was the first one to bat in the nets alongside Shikhar Dhawan before they switched to take throwdowns.
Mohammad Shami, Kuldeep Yadav and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who were rested for the series and have been training at the National Cricket Academy, joined their teammates briefly in the nets. Shami even had a decent bowling session.