Rohit Sharma was a disappointed captain as Mumbai Indians (MI) suffered a four-wicket defeat at the hands of Delhi Capitals (DC) in Sharjah on Saturday (October 2).

Asked to bat first, MI managed only 129/8 in 20 overs. It was a listless batting performance as Suryakumar Yadav was the top scorer with 26-ball 33.

For DC, Avesh Khan (3-15) and Akshar Patel (3-21) starred with the ball as they delivered economical spells and claimed three wickets each.

"We always knew it was going to be a difficult venue. We watched a lot of games and we do understand that it isn't the easiest of the grounds to play and get those runs you want. We came prepared, we knew exactly what to expect from the conditions, we spoke of those as to how we need to go about when we bat. We didn't bat well, we didn't create those partnerships, we always knew that it wasn't a 170-180 wicket, we knew 140 is a par score here," Rohit said in the post-match presentation ceremony.

"We just couldn't get the partnerships going. If your batters are not going to put runs on the board, it's going to be difficult to win games consistently. We have struggled with our batting this season, I personally accept that. But I don't want to take anything away from the guys, we are preparing very well. We are just not able to execute in the middle, a little disappointing."

Chasing the target, the Capitals were struggling at 65/4 after 10 overs but Shreyas Iyer (33*) and R Ashwin (21*) held their nerves to guide the team over the line with five balls to spare.

After the loss, Rohit also admitted that the defending champions are not playing to their potential.

"We just look to play the game we are known to, something's missing in our game. We are not playing to the potential that we are known for, that is something that is missing in the UAE leg. Hopefully, in the next two games we can come out and play the way we are known for," he remarked.

Mumbai Indians will take on Rajasthan Royals in their next match on Tuesday (October 5).

(With ANI inputs)