Team India has had a poor show in the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup so far where their hope of making it to the semi-finals seems impossible after New Zealand beat the Virat Kohli led team by eight wickets on Sunday. Team India, who was a firm favourite while entering the tournament, faced two consecutive losses by Pakistan and then the Kiwis by 10 wickets and 8 wickets, respectively.
Kohli, however, admitted that they were not brave enough on the field in both occasions. While speaking at the post-match presentation ceremony, Virat Kohli said: “Quite bizarre. I don’t think we were brave enough with bat or ball. We didn’t have much to defend but we weren’t brave when we walked onto the field. Whenever we looked to take the game on, we lost a wicket. That happens in T20 cricket when some hesitation set in.”
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However, India’s batting looked too weak in both games. After scoring 152 against Pakistan, they managed only 110 yesterday. Ravindra Jadeja top-scored with 26* as well. And, New Zealand opener Daryl Mitchell and Kane Williamson took the team home in just 14.3 overs.
When he was asked whether expectations have got the better of the players, Virat Kohli said: “When you play for the Indian cricket team you obviously have a lot of expectations and everyone knows that – not just from fans, but players themselves. So there’s always going to be more pressure with our games and we’ve embraced it over the years.”
He continued: “Everyone who plays for the Indian team has to embrace it. And when you embrace it and cope together as a team you’re able to overcome the pressure and we haven’t done it these two games. Just because you’re in the Indian team and there are expectations doesn’t mean you start playing differently.”
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However, with two consecutive defeats, India’s chances of qualification for the semis look tough. However, they will next play against Afghanistan on Wednesday in Abu Dhabi.
“I think we have to disconnect from that a little bit and take pride as a team. As long as individuals are looking to do that, we’re fine. There’s a lot of cricket left to play,” Virat Kohli concluded.
