Durban, April 18 (NationPress) India cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues acknowledged that the team fell short with their batting performance, despite starting off strong, after suffering a six-wicket loss to South Africa in the first T20I held at Kingsmead. The hosts claimed victory, leading the five-match series 1-0, marking a positive start to this crucial home series. This series also serves as a preparation for both teams ahead of the T20 World Cup commencing on June 12 in England.

“I believe we were approximately 15-20 runs short with our batting. Given the solid start we had, especially with Shafali Verma's impressive innings, we should have capitalised more during the powerplay,” Jemimah stated in the post-match interview, emphasizing the missed opportunities for India.

India had an explosive start but quickly lost two wickets. However, Jemimah and captain Harmanpreet Kaur managed to stabilize the innings with a vital partnership. She admitted that they couldn't build on that momentum when it was crucial.

“After losing two wickets in quick succession, Harmanpreet and I worked well together to regain momentum. Yet, when the time came to capitalize, we weren’t able to take advantage,” she reflected.

Despite acknowledging the difficult batting conditions in the first innings, she maintained that the total score was inadequate, stating, “The conditions were somewhat challenging in the first innings, with a bit of grip on the wicket. Nevertheless, we were indeed about 15 runs short.”

Discussing the middle-order dynamics, Jemimah stressed the need for players to embrace their intent, especially under pressure. “Harman and I should have pushed deeper into our innings. Even Richa’s few runs were pivotal. When players enter in challenging situations, they need to trust themselves. It’s a one-in-ten chance for a catch, but nine times out of ten, they’ll clear the boundary,” she explained.

Jemimah highlighted the broader significance of such matches as they prepare for a global event, emphasizing the necessity for India’s all-rounders to gain more match experience.

“We can certainly improve on that, especially with the World Cup approaching. Our batting extends deep, and many all-rounders haven't had ample match time. Competing here in South Africa will be beneficial for us as we prepare for the World Cup and strengthen our batting order,” the 25-year-old remarked.

On the bowling side, Jemimah praised the team for extending the game to the final over but called for improved execution, stating, “In the second innings, our bowlers performed admirably to bring it down to the last over. Shreyanka Patil and Shree Charani bowled exceptionally well. With better execution, we can come back stronger in the next match.”

She reiterated the importance of batting through the innings, noting, “In the first innings, the ball was gripping a bit, making it challenging to play shots. The partnership between Harman and me was solid; however, I got out at a pivotal moment. When set batters are at the crease, it’s easier to build on that and take it deep. In the next match, I’m determined to take on that responsibility again.”

Looking towards the upcoming fixture, Jemimah expressed confidence in their ability to adapt to the conditions and enhance their collective performance.

“In the next game, as a batting unit, we need to be aware of the conditions. We know this pitch may offer slight turn and hold, and it will play similarly in both innings during the day. That's a positive for us, minimizing toss impact. Additionally, our bowling unit will focus on enhancing execution and aim to return stronger,” she concluded.