1st ODI: Buttler Expresses Regret Over Lost Opportunities
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Synopsis
Jos Buttler's England team faced disappointment after failing to capitalize on early advantages, leading to a loss in the first ODI against India. The team struggled to build on their strong start, ultimately falling short despite having chances to take control.
Key Takeaways
- England's missed chances in batting and bowling.
- Jos Buttler's disappointment over the team's performance.
- Importance of capitalizing on early advantages.
- Partnership between Gill and Iyer crucial for India's victory.
- Hope for improvement in the upcoming ODI.
Nagpur, Feb 6 (NationPress) England's ongoing tour in India has become a narrative of missed opportunities as Jos Buttler's squad once again failed to capitalize on the slight advantage they had both with bat and ball, ultimately losing the first ODI against India at the Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) Stadium on Thursday.
Similar to their performance in the preceding T20I series, where they lost 4-1 after securing a victory in the third match, England faltered again. In the first ODI, they started strong, reaching over 70 runs without losing a wicket during the power-play, only to falter and be bowled out for 248.
They had another opportunity to seize control after reducing India to 19/2 by dismissing both Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal cheaply.
However, Shubman Gill (87) and Shreyas Iyer (59) built a crucial 94-run partnership for the third wicket, swinging momentum back to India. Gill and Axar Patel then steered India towards victory.
Captain Jos Buttler expressed his disappointment as his team failed to make the most of their chances yet again.
"Disappointed not to win the game. Thought we got off to a fantastic start in the powerplay. The openers had a great start, but losing four wickets was frustrating. An additional 40-50 runs would have been vital," Buttler remarked during the post-match presentation.
After a promising start from Phil Salt (43) and Ben Duckett (32), England's batting collapsed. "That is not how we want to play. We aim to put the opposition under pressure and maintain the momentum," Buttler stated.
Buttler acknowledged that England's approach, particularly with fast bowling, has become somewhat predictable throughout this series.
"They started well, being 20 for 2. At that moment, the game was in the balance; had we managed to take a wicket, it could have made a difference. However, Gill and Iyer formed a solid partnership," he added.
Buttler emphasized the need for prolonged improvement, noting that they have shown potential in stages. "When we have the momentum, we want to extend it further," he said.
The England captain remains hopeful that fortunes will turn in the second ODI at Cuttack, making the series more engaging.
