Our batting let us down on a seaming track: Rohit Sharma

Dharamshala: Rohit Sharma rued India’s batting performance in their massive seven-wicket loss to Sri Lanka in the first ODI of the three-match series at Dharamshala. Indian batsmen came a cropper under pace-friendly conditions. Rohit agreed that the batting let the team down on a seamer-friendly wicket. Speaking at a press conference, Rohit said: “We were not up to the mark with the bat. 70-80 runs more and it would have been a different ball game. It is important to thrive in these conditions and come out good. It is an eye opener for all of us.” India were staring at the lowest score in One-Day International (ODI) history after being asked to bat by Sri Lanka. Eventually, India collapsed to 112 all out and Sri Lanka completed the chase in just 20.4 overs. They now go 1-0 up in the three match ODI series. M.S Dhoni was the lone Indian batsman who was up to the challenge, hitting a gritty 65. Rohit said that he was not surprised by Dhoni’s effort. “He knows what to do in these conditions. I was not surprised. Someone batting with him would have made a big difference. There was still something in the pitch when we were bowling, but 112 was not enough runs on the board”, added Rohit. Asked about his ODI captaincy debut in the absence of Virat Kohli, Rohit said: “Not such a great experience. Nobody likes to be on the losing side. We have to focus on the coming back in two games and come as hard as possible”, said Rohit. The second one-day match will be played at Mohali’s Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) Stadium. India would be looking to level the series there. ANI