"It all started with bowling...": Skipper Iyer reflects on loss to West Indies in 4th T20I
Skipper Shreyas Iyer reflects on India's 23-run defeat to West Indies in the 4th T20I, citing bowling execution and pitch changes as key factors.
Indian skipper Shreyas Iyer has pinpointed bowling execution as the primary reason behind his side's narrow defeat to the West Indies in the fourth T20I. Following a high-octane encounter in Hyderabad, the West Indies successfully defended a massive total to secure a 23-run victory, leveling the series at 2-2 heading into the final decider.
Bowling execution falters in high-scoring chase
Chasing a daunting target of 248, India struggled to maintain momentum as the pitch conditions shifted. Speaking during the post-match proceedings, Iyer admitted that the team's inability to control the game with the ball set the tone for the loss.
"It started with the bowling. I think we did not execute our line and lengths well," Iyer stated. "At the end of the day, chasing 250, you have to go in a certain pattern. I like the approach when we were chasing, but we were unfortunate we could not execute our plans in bowling, and that is where we fell a bit short."
The skipper also noted that the surface became increasingly difficult for batters during the middle overs. As the match progressed, the ball began to hold up in the surface and offered more bounce, allowing the West Indian bowlers to capitalize on the slowing pitch.
Shai Hope and Keemo Paul shine for West Indies
The West Indies' total of 247/3 was built on a masterclass from Shai Hope, who smashed an unbeaten 102 off just 50 balls. His innings, featuring nine massive sixes, marked his fourth century of the Indian tour. Supporting the onslaught were Shimron Hetmyer, who provided a quick-fire 33, and Sherfane Rutherford, who finished with an unbeaten 49.
On the bowling front, Keemo Paul was the architect of India's downfall, delivering a clinical spell to claim 5/41. His ability to strike early prevented the Indian batters from settling into the required run rate.
India's fightback falls short
India's chase began with an explosive burst from Sanju Samson, whose rapid 56 off 22 balls kept the required rate within reach. Despite Abhishek Sharma struggling to find his rhythm early on, the team maintained a scoring rate of roughly 12 runs per over during the initial stages.
A glimmer of hope emerged through a spirited 70-run partnership between Tilak Varma (43) and Nitish Kumar Reddy (41). However, the momentum shifted again as both fell, leaving the middle order unable to sustain the necessary tempo. The chase ended on a somber note as Arshdeep Singh was forced to retire hurt in the final over after being struck on the arm, leaving India 25 runs shy of the target.
The stage is set for Bengaluru
With the series deadlocked, all eyes now turn to the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru for the fifth and final T20I on October 17. Iyer remains optimistic about the upcoming decider, emphasizing the need for a disciplined mindset.
"I am sure the fifth one would be an interesting one. You can see the approach and attitude of every individual when chasing such totals. The approach is going to be the same, and I feel going forward we have to have good execution and mindset," Iyer concluded.