Amol Muzumdar: We Could Have Improved Our Batting Performance
Click to start listening
Brisbane, Dec 5 (NationPress) The head coach of India, Amol Muzumdar, is of the opinion that the team led by Harmanpreet Kaur could have shown better application with the bat, which was a key factor in their dismissal for just 100 runs in 34.2 overs, ultimately losing to Australia by five wickets in the opening match of the ODI series on Thursday.
"Indeed, we are quite disappointed, as we anticipated a higher score, and that’s simply the case. It was evident that the pitch wasn't in optimal condition, as Australia also lost five wickets while reaching 100. Had we managed to apply ourselves more effectively at the crease, we could have accumulated greater runs. If we had set a slightly higher total, the outcome could have been different in cricket," stated Muzumdar during the post-match press conference.
He commended the young leg-spinner Priya Mishra for her aggressive bowling, which earned her the wickets of Annabel Sutherland and Ashleigh Gardner. "The bowlers performed admirably, particularly with some young talents emerging. This is a positive indication for Indian cricket. Priya Mishra is participating in her second international series and demonstrated her skills today, as well as against New Zealand."
Muzumdar provided insight into India's preparation, revealing that the team had limited time to unite due to players' commitments in domestic T20 tournaments and the WBBL in Australia. "From a preparatory standpoint, we scarcely came together as a team before our departure, as we lacked sufficient time for practice."
"We arrived here and managed a couple of days for net practice. Unfortunately, one of our two outdoor sessions was affected by rain, so we resorted to indoor facilities. Nonetheless, we are fully prepared for the series. Moving forward from this first match, it would be beneficial if we could post a solid total on the board."
With India set to host the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, Muzumdar disclosed that various players will be assessed during bilateral series to finalize the best 15 for the major event on home soil. "In these bilateral matches, we aim to test several players. In fact, Titas made her debut today, and Priya Mishra is participating in her second series. As Harleen is re-entering the middle order after an extended absence, we are working on stabilizing both the batting order and bowling line-up."
He concluded by acknowledging the support from the coaching staff in preparation for different matches, and mentioned that seam-bowling all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar is currently undergoing rehabilitation for injuries at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.
"It’s wonderful to have such a supportive staff on board, well-connected to the NCA. A great deal of effort occurs behind the scenes at the NCA. Once we transition into the international calendar, having Aavishkar Salvi as a bowling coach has been immensely beneficial."
"Currently, our support staff is excellent. Troy is a vital part of the NCA. In fact, we met him a couple of days ago while he was here in Brisbane. Therefore, we are completely aligned with the operations at the NCA."
