Indian faced a setback on Saturday, losing the third ODI against by five wickets.
Despite the defeat, captain Shubman Gill expressed satisfaction with his team’s overall performance in the series, which they won 2-1. However, he acknowledged significant areas for improvement, particularly in fielding and bowling during the death overs.
Batting first, India scored 351 runs, losing seven wickets. Rohit Sharma contributed a solid 92 runs, while Ruturaj Gaikwad added 57. KL Rahul’s impressive unbeaten 129 helped set a formidable target. Yet, this score fell short as West Indies captain Shai Hope delivered a stunning performance, scoring an runs, leading his team to a historic chase and marking their first ODI since 2023.
In the post-match presentation, Gill remarked, “Several things went well. However, there are definitely areas needing improvement. I was pleased with the score we set. I believe the game was under our control, but we fell short in the final overs.” He noted that being four overs behind against this team was detrimental, stating, “If we hadn’t lost those overs, the game might have gone to the last over.”
Gill also highlighted issues with death bowling. “Sometimes, we aren’t clear whether we’re attacking or defending, especially in the death overs. In such matches, if the opposing team has lost five or six wickets, you can never be sure of the right field placements. We need to improve in these areas.”
He explained his decision to hold back wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav’s remaining overs, citing uncertainty about Gurnoor Barar’s fitness due to cramps. “We weren’t sure if Gurnoor could bowl again, so we had to play it cautiously,” Gill said.
Reflecting on the early dismissal of Jayden Seales, Gill expressed disappointment but felt he couldn’t have done much differently on that delivery. He concluded, “I am largely happy, but I see room for improvement. Our fielding could have been better. Throughout the series, we dropped about six or seven catches, which is not a good sign before the World Cup. You want your fielding to be top-notch.”