Abhishek Sharma scored 68 off 37 balls.
India batter Abhishek Sharma said that the team's young and inexperienced squad was exposed to some superb bowling from Australia in the second T20I at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday, and that they were undone by the extra pace.
Abhishek, who was playing his first international series in Australia, stated that while India had expected pace and bounce, they were nonetheless surprised by how the home bowlers took advantage of the conditions in the second game.
Abhishek top-scored for the visitors with a valiant 68-run effort, but Australia cruised home by four wickets.
“The challenge is that a lot of players, including me, are on their first tour here. We knew about the extra bounce and pace, but still, the way they bowled surprised us. They were very disciplined with their line and length, and credit goes to them," Abhishek said in the post-match presser.
The ace Indian batsman, who opened the innings, admitted that the team's aggressive top-order strategy needed to be changed after wickets began to fall early.
“We planned to dominate up front, but it was a little unexpected for us. When wickets are falling in front of you, no matter who the batter is, you have to play for the team. The wicket was difficult; it was not easy to hit shots,” Abhishek added.
Abhishek explained that his daring attitude with the bat is due to the trust given in him by the team management.
“When I play, I try to bring the bowler under pressure. This approach has its ups and downs, but my captain and coach have always supported me. They are clear that I should play my natural game, and when they say that, it gives me confidence," Abhishek added.
India plays the third T20I of the series on Sunday, November 2, at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart.
(PTI inputs)