Death bowling for us needs to improve – MS Dhoni – Cricket News Update
Though happy to kick start the 2012-13 season on a victorious note with a 21-run win over http://www.senore.com/Cricket/MS-Dhoni-c2028 said that they need to improve bowling in the death overs.
"It was a good learning experience for the younger bowlers. Zak [Zaheer] was good. [But] The death bowling for us needs to improve," said the triumphant Indian skipper at the post match presentation ceremony, on Saturday night.
After keeping the Sri Lankan batsmen under check for 40 overs (203 for 6), the Indian bowlers conceded 90 runs in the last 10 overs. All-rounder Thisara Perera, coming in at number 8 in the 39 over, got the best of the visiting attack, hitting three muscular boundaries and a lofty six in his 28-ball 44. Tail-ender http://www.senore.com/Cricket/SL-Malinga-c2540 also smashed a boundary and two sixes in his cameo of 19 runs. Though the hosts eventually fell 21 runs short, they amassed more than 100 runs in the last 11 overs, after 197-6 at the end of 39th over.
The visiting skipper was also pleased to see http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Irfan-Pathan-c1601 showing signs of form during the season opener.
“...one good positive was Irfan Pathan doing well. Without Jadeja or Yuvraj, it is difficult to make a side balanced in both departments so this was important,” Dhoni stressed.
The Ranchi boy, who scored quick 35 last night, also praised Sehwag and Kohli for providing the side with a steady start, however he said his lower order lacks much needed firepower.
“Sehwag and Kohli batted very well, we are lacking a bit of firepower down the line,” said the wicketkeeper batsman.
“Gautam was unfortunate to get out in that fashion. Once the batsmen who are set carry on, then me, and the likes of Raina can go and express ourselves,” he added further.
Thanking heavens for letting him win a rare toss, Dhoni said that it was a crucial toss to win as the conditions were not that favourable for batting in the latter half of the game.
http://www.senore.com/Cricket/India-c750 now lead the five-match series 1-0, with the second One Day International getting underway at the same MRICS Hambantota venue, on Tuesday, July 24.
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