IND vs ENG: Thought Our Tactics And Strategy In 3rd ODI Was Absolutely Brilliant - Rahul Dravid

Team India head coach Rahul Dravid said that the Indian team’s decision to come up with a short-ball ploy during the third ODI was quite smart and it helped them to restrict England to just 259 on a good batting surface.

England has a powerful batting order with each one capable of scoring more than run-a-ball. However, they were undone by smart field placements combined with pacy short balls at the body.

“We were fantastic with the ball. It was exceptional the way we bowled. That was a really good wicket, and to be able to restrict a team like England to 260 [259], we did fantastically well. We picked up a few wickets upfront, then they built a partnership, but I thought our tactics and strategy was absolutely brilliant,” Dravid said.

Hardik Pandya was the pick of the lot, ending with career-best figures of 4/24 in 7 overs. Three out of his first four overs were also maidens, adding extra pressure on the hosts when they were looking to accelerate.

“The way Hardik and Rishabh responded was superb” – Rahul Dravid

Dravid was also impressed with the response of Hardik and Rishabh Pant after India was struggling at 72/4 in pursuit of 260. They put together 133 runs for the 5th wicket, taking India to the brink of victory.

“At the back end, to bowl the short ball with fielders in place, credit to the team and captain for working on some really good strategies. It really came out really well.”

“The way Hardik and Rishabh responded was superb. It was really good to see that under pressure with the series on the line. To put in a partnership like that and bat like the way Rishabh and Hardik did was really heartening for us,” he added.

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