It's all about execution – Shreyas Iyer reflects on India’s shortcomings against West Indies

Team India battled hard in Hyderabad, only to be denied in the dying embers of the game as West Indies walked away with the bragging rights.

A contest where both teams’ batters came together in putting up a show was eventually decided by Keemo Paul’s heroics, with the all-rounder claiming a fifer.

Batting first, West Indies posted 247/3. While India, going strong until the 16th over, lost considerable momentum in the last four, eventually being bundled out for 223.

Indian captain Shreyas Iyer highlighted where India’s performance fell short, as he said, “It all started with bowling. I think we didn't execute our line lengths well and see at the end of the day chasing 250 you have to go in a certain pattern when you're coming and chasing. So I like the approach when we were chasing but we were unfortunate we couldn't execute our plans in bowling and that's where we fell a bit short.”

Pinpointing if Abhishek Sharma being away from strike was a factor, Iyer stated, “Not really, we were still going 12 an over at that point of time. It's just that they executed their plan and there was a bit too off from the wicket as well. The ball was kicking a bit and they used the field pretty well. So credit where it's due and their execution was spot on.”

Shedding light on the surface, Iyer added, “Yeah, it was holding a bit and there were some more bounces as well. But yeah, knowing that I feel the bowlers, they realized it. They are bowlers and the way they bowled according to the field, that's what was important, especially in those middle overs. Even though the momentum shifted towards us, in between still the ability to bounce back was top notch and I'm sure the fifth one would be an interesting one.”

He concluded by talking about India’s potential approach in the next game, stating, “Well, obviously, getting 220, especially when we were chasing and then scoring 250, you can see the approach and attitude of every individual. So the approach is going to be same and I feel going forward we don't have to think much about, our bowling. But it's all about execution and having that fresh mindset where you come on that given day and see do it, then you seize the moment.”