Dhawan top-scored for India with 79 off 84 in the opening ODI. However, India faltered in the chase of 297 to lose the match by 31 runs. The visitors went from 138 for 1 to 188 for 6 to stumble in the chase.
Reflecting on India’s defeat at a virtual press conference, the experienced left-hander said:
Asserting that the middle order will get stronger once Rohit Sharma returns from injury to take his opening position, Dhawan stated:
Bowling first after losing the toss, India reduced South Africa to 68 for 3. However, hundreds from Temba Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen lifted the hosts to 296 for 4.
“We lost wickets in a bunch” - Shikhar Dhawan admits middle-order collapse hurt India
At one stage in the chase, India looked well-placed to cross the target as Dhawan and Virat Kohli (51) controlled proceedings. However, once the partnership was broken, India could never find their way back in the contest.
Reflecting on India’s batting collapse, the opener explained:
The second ODI of the three-match series will also be played at Boland Park in Paarl on Friday, January 21.
0 votes
