Rahim: We gave away loose balls

Cricket365
July 27, 2014

Captain Mushfiqur Rahim lamented a telling shortage of runs, as Bangladesh slipped to a seven-wicket defeat at the hands of India in Sunday's rain-affected first ODI in Mirpur, Dhaka.

Fine half-centuries from Rahim and all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan pushed the hosts' choice to bat first to a final total of 272 for nine at the Shere Bangla National Stadium.

A near three-hour rain delay, however, reduced the target to 150 in 26 overs. Openers Ajinkya Rahane and Robin Uthappa were swift in pursuit, registering 64 and 50 respectively to seal an early series lead for India with seven deliveries to spare.

"After looking at that wicket I think we were 20 short. But they batted really well, especially in the first 10 overs. Our bowlers also gave away loose balls. Their bowlers didn't do that. The decision at the toss can go either way. As I said this was a young Indian side. If only we had we got those 20 extra runs," said Rahim.

The right-handed Rahane was named Man of the Match, leading by example in an under-strength batting order the services of the rested Virat Kohli, Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja.

"The start is really important for any series. The partnership at the top was crucial, but the bowlers did really well in that heat. It was really challenging. We just wanted to give our 100 percent. We thought they were 15 to 20 short. The credit goes to the bowlers," added Rahane.

The second and third ODI will be played at the same venue on Tuesday and Thursday.