'A Lot to Learn From Australia': Harmanpreet Kaur Admits 'Poor Fielding' Cost India the T20I series

Alyssa Healy’s Australia defeated India by 7 wickets in the third T20I on Tuesday to clinch the series 2-1. In fact, it was India’s third consecutive white-ball series defeat on home soil in less than 2 months. They were beaten by England 2-1 in 3 T20Is and then the Aussies whitewashed them 3-0 in the ODI series. The hosts were brilliant in the red-ball games but were completely outplayed in the limited-overs format. A lacklustre approach in fielding took a massive toll on the Indian unit throughout the series. However, captain Harmanpreet Kaur believes that the team will take lessons from these defeats and work rigorously to return stronger.

Speaking at the post-match presentation on Tuesday, Kaur said India managed to excel in the Test matches but couldn’t live up to the standards in ODIs and T20Is.

“The last one month we played very good cricket. They played white-ball cricket better than us. Red-ball cricket we know we can take our time but in white-ball cricket, we need to be on our toes. As a team, we have learnt a lot. Fielding is something we were not up to the mark and after this break, we will work on our fitness and fielding and come back stronger,” Harmanpreet Kaur said.

The Indian captain also highlighted the contribution of the youngsters, adding that she is proud of her team.

“Whenever they are getting the opportunity, they are giving their 100 per cent, the combination and unity plays a big role. We always give fight to them, we are not going to give them anything easily, that is something I am proud of my team. A lot to learn from them (Australia) as well,” she concluded.

Earlier, Healy saved her best for the last to hand India a crushing seven-wicket defeat in the third and final T20I as the visitors bagged the series 2-1 here Tuesday. She opted to field after calling it correct, and the bowlers responded to her decision to keep India to a modest 147 for six. The stylish batter then returned to crack a 55 off 38 balls laced with nine fours and a six to lead Australia’s march to a series win.