We wanted to experiment and also challenge ourselves a bit more - Shreyas Iyer

India’s bowlers fell short in the final clash of the series as New Zealand completed a successful chase in Hamilton. However, the Men in Blue had already sealed the series with a win in the third match, courtesy of superlative batting performances.

India captain Shreyas Iyer put up a clinical show with the bat in the series finale. Iyer walked out to bat after India lost two quick wickets. From there, he built a 93-run partnership with Ishan Kishan, smashing 50 off just 23 balls with three fours and four sixes.

After the game, Iyer spoke about the team’s overall performance and explained the experiments India made in the last two games.

Speaking at the post-match presentation, Iyer said, “We could have been better considering the start we got in the middle overs, the way Ishan and I, we created the momentum. And then from there on we lost back-to-back wickets. And then suddenly pressure on the new batsman. It wasn’t an easy wicket to play on, especially when the ball was seaming and holding a bit.”

He added, “And also skidding through at times. You must have seen a couple of like myself and Tilak, we got out in a similar fashion. So yeah, it was challenging especially of that hard length. But to get to 194, yeah, it was reasonable, I feel. I think we still could have been better with our bowling and fielding. We were a bit sloppy. But great learning. I think coming overseas, coming to New Zealand, getting to play on such different occasions, different grounds. Yeah, great learning curve.”

Explaining the changes in the last two games, Iyer said, “Absolutely, I think the first three games, absolutely it gave us, it steadied the rhythm for us. And then coming in the last two games, I feel we were in this position where we wanted to experiment and also challenge ourselves a bit more. And today was the right opportunity. And obviously we didn’t live up to it. But a great learning as I mentioned.”

Asked where India stand in the shortest format, Iyer said, “I think right now I don’t want to think much about it because we’ve got ODIs to play. But boys are in high spirits. It’s definitely something, you know, when you come overseas, you are challenged by different aspects of the game. And the more you take the bull by the horns, the better it gets.”

He continued, “So I feel today was just that opportunity which we wanted to capitalise on, but we couldn’t. But, we can brainstorm and we have to work on couple of things, especially fielding. That is one aspect of the game we need to improve on. But honestly it’s not that easy when you come under such dark lights, clear skies. We don’t get that much in India. But yeah, great learning curve.”

Iyer signed off by thanking the Indian fans in New Zealand. He said, “Definitely the way they came in numbers and supported us, it gave us immense confidence when we entered the ground. And their love and support means a lot. And I hope that we keep getting it in every match we encounter.”