Indian cricket team lost the three-match ODI series against New Zealand on Saturday. They failed to chase down a target of 274 in 50 overs and were bowled out on 251 runs. But it was Indian bowlers who were blamed for the loss by former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar.

Bowling first, India failed to capitalize on the moment after triggering a collapse. New Zealand started well and they added 142 runs with the loss of only 1 wicket. But for the next 55 runs, 7 Kiwi batsmen were dismissed.

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It was a good opportunity for India to bundle them on a cheap score, but New Zealand ended up scoring 273/8 after being 197/8 at one stage. Ross Taylor and debutant Kyle Jamieson put together an unbeaten 76-run stand for the 9th wicket. The veteran batsman scored 73* and Jamieson added 25*.

Ex-Pakistan speedster Akhtar slammed Indian bowling for the loss. He said, “India deserved this lesson. You cannot win ODIs by playing such poor cricket."

He added that the wicket of Taylor was key and India didn't know how to respond to him. “No one had an answer to Taylor’s innings. I don’t understand how you can let the game slip from reducing the opposition to 7-8 down. I’m repeatedly saying India is missing a strike bowler. Chahal came in place of Kuldeep, he did well but they lacked someone who could put his hand up when they needed wickets,” said Akhtar.