New Delhi: Indian captain Shreyas Iyer refused to criticize Ravi Bishnoi despite the leg-spinner’s 17th best performance in a four-wicket win in the second T20I at Old Trafford on Saturday.Chasing 191, England climbed to 76 unbeaten Jacob in Bethel to reach the target and beyond. The turning point came in the 17th over when Bishnoi smashed 29 runs, which allowed England to control the chase.
The over that changed the game
India looked in control after reducing England to 142/5 in 16 overs. But the game changed dramatically in the 17th hour. Bishnoi started with a free kick, which Bethell sent over six minutes from a free kick. The bowler then bowled another no-ball, and Bethell continued to bat with sixes, fours, sixes, singles and doubles, making 29 runs from the over.Although the passing was costly, Iyer stood by his young captain after the match.“I think we all know where it went but I don’t want to describe one player. I was like, well he will come back strong after (the first no-ball). But the 17th over gave us trouble. But he will learn,” Iyer said.
‘It was great’
The Indian captain believed that his team won in a tough game that gives you a chance to win.“I think it was an amazing victory on the pitch with a revolutionary jump. The first 15 we were on top of the game but suddenly – the history of how Jacob played,” he added.Iyer credited Jacob Bethell for changing the pace of the run with his aggressive batting. He also noted that England had carefully assessed the situation before launching an attack.“They analyzed the size of the ground and the wicket early,” he said.The Indian captain was especially praised for the young England player’s fearless attitude.“He has an unwavering attitude when he’s fearless. The way he hits the net … something to learn from him. I wasn’t expecting him to be nervous.”Despite the disappointing defeat, Iyer said the team will move forward quickly and focus on the third T20I.“Of course, I’m always very happy and I know this is the lowest you can go,” he concluded.The third T20I of the five-match series will be played at Trent Bridge in Nottingham on July 7.