Shubman Gill has pointed to a middle-order collapse and an injury to Washington Sundar as the reasons India lost the second ODI against England in Cardiff, while praising Joe Root for the innings that won it.
The collapse
India chose to bat and looked well placed at 178 for 3, with Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer building a partnership. Then four wickets fell for 15 runs in 26 balls, and the side was bowled out for 233.
England reached 234 for 6 in 44.1 overs. Root stayed unbeaten on 99 to lead the chase and level the three-match series at 1-1.
At the post-match presentation, Gill said India had been aiming for 300 to 310 after 25 overs, but lost too many wickets in the middle overs. He felt the lower middle order failed to build on starts, adding that the tailenders are not the best batters but more was expected from those above them.
Sundar’s injury
Gill called Sundar a key part of the team and said his absence may have eased the pressure on England. India had to lean heavily on their main bowlers. Gill did not think it would have changed things hugely, since the ball did more for the pacers than the spinners, but he accepted that losing a key player costs momentum.
Root’s mastery
Gill said the modest target suited Root. India knew that a run rate of five or more might force a false shot, but in this type of chase he is a master, Gill said.
The teams now meet in the decisive third ODI at Lord’s on Sunday, July 19.
