Harare, Aug 18 : Stand-in skipper K.L.Rahul was satisfied with his bowlers’ performance in the 10-wick win against Zimbabwe in the opening ODI of the series at the Harare Sports Club, saying that they placed the ball in good places and were disciplined in their efforts.Despite conceding 25 extras Axar Patel returned Deepak Chahar, as well as Prasidh Krishna each took three wickets each .India bowled out Zimbabwe for 189 all-out in 40.3 overs
“Picking up wickets is vital.There was a seam and a swing movement, too.It was great to watch them place the ball in the right places and also be disciplined.For a small number of us, it’s good to be back in the Indian dressing room,” said Rahul after the game.
The game on Thursday was the first cricket appearance of Rahul and Chahar in an extended period of time due to the absence of injuries.”As great as it could be I am out there and I am very happy.We play lots of cricket and injuries will be an aspect of it.Away from the game can be difficult.The rehab and the day-to-day routine becomes boring.We’d rather play 365 days a year than with the physiotherapist,” added Rahul.
Zimbabwe captain Regis Chakabva admitted that Indian bowlers did not let Zimbabwe free in their batsman’s innings.
With a score of 110-8, Zimbabwe were in danger of being snubbed for a low score.However, fantastic counter-attacking runs from Evans (33) and Ngarava (34) and Ngarava (34) who shared an unbeaten 70-run stand for the ninth wicket, their best ever against India was instrumental in helping Zimbabwe reach 200, even though Zimbabwe was bowled out at only 189.
“The Indian bowlers bowled really well and put pressure on us.I felt we started well but then lost our way around the 18-over point.It was nice to watch Richie (Ngarava) as well as Brad (Evans) make an excellent team in the final.”
“They were pretty excellent and we needed a couple of large partnerships.We did not have enough.Our bowlers tried to go to them with a lot of force, however Shikhar and Gill batted very well and got us out of the game.”
With a 1-0 lead India will be hoping to win the series with three matches in the second game on Saturday.
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