India suffered a 51-run loss to Australia in the second ODI in Sydney on Sunday. The result meant that Virat Kohli’s team had lost the ODI series to Australia taking an impregnable 2-0 lead in the three-game series. India had a decent hitting performance scoring 338/9 in 50 overs, but the 390 goal in front of them proved too big to chase.
After the loss, Kohli admitted that his team was outmatched by the team led by Aaron Finch and also expressed concern about the team’s performance in bowling.
“They have surpassed us. We were ineffective with the ball and did not hit the areas. They have a solid batting formation, they know the conditions and angles well, “Kohli said at the post-game presentation ceremony.
“The chase felt steep, and a terrain or two raised the RRR, so we had to keep hitting. They took advantage of the opportunities they created in the field, which was the difference, ”he added.
“Hardik felt good to go bowling. Initially he only thought of trying a couple of overs, but he felt good and threw a couple more. And he gave away a bit of a bowling plan with his clippers (smiles), but credit to them, they used the dimensions well.
Even Rahul or Shreyas, if they went ahead, could have made us cross the line with Hardik.
Kohli also said Australia was better on the field, taking some good catches to help them on the road to victory. “Me and KL (Rahul) were talking if we stayed to 40-41 (overs), even 100 in the last 10 overs with Hardik to come, it was the game, that was the game plan, but the two catches that held were challenging moments ”, he concluded.
India will play Australia in the third ODI on Sunday.
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