New Delhi, December 21: Dejected and downcast after a crushing defeat in the opening Test, India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni blamed his bowlers for allowing South Africa to pile up a massive first innings lead which ultimately led to the visitors’ downfall.
The Indian bowlers conceded 225 runs in the pre-lunch session on the third day, which enabled South Africa to declare their innings at 620/4 and pile up a massive first innings lead of almost 500 runs.
”Although the wicket was different to the first day, you’re still expected to get sides out.
”That’s an area of concern because to win a Test you have to get 20 wickets.
”You’re supposed to either take wickets or not let the opposition score at five runs an over,” Dhoni was quoted as saying by ‘The Times’.
Pace spearhead Zaheer Khan missed the first Test due to a hamstring injury, but is expected to return for the Boxing Day Test in Durban. Dhoni was visibly relieved that Zaheer’s expected comeback and hoped that his presence will shore up the Indian attack.
”It’s not just that when Zaheer plays he always gets wickets,” Dhoni said.
”What is good with him is the amount of experience he has got, the way he comes up with new plans and changes his plans during the course of the game,” he added.
–UNI