India were let down by their bowlers in the first ODI against South Africa as they conceded 296 runs in 50 overs. It turned out to be more than enough as the visitors fell 31 runs short of South Africa's score and lost the match.
Stand-in captain KL Rahul used only five bowlers and he didn't ask all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer to bowl despite not getting wickets in the middle overs. Iyer is capable of being used as the sixth bowling option.
Former India pacer Zaheer Khan questioned Rahul's decision and said the team management must trust the youngster's bowling ability. 'The one thing you should learn is how Bavuma used his resources. He didn't use seamers and spinners separately. We didn't see either seamers or spinners operating in tandem for a long time. So, you made the best system out of resources you have," Zaheer told Cricbuzz.
“When you talk about Venkatesh Iyer.. you should have given him the ball if you want to give him confidence. Don't look at the match situation. If you've planned something.. like you said earlier that you're planning while keeping in mind the World Cup, so you have to show confidence right now. You will have to give him overs. A player only learns from his failures. You can't buy experience in the market.”
Zaheer further said that the team should back Venkatesh and give him chance as the sixth bowling option. “Suppose Iyer plays 4-5 matches and you don't give him an over.. you can't say later that we have an all-rounder ready in him. Yes, if he bowls, he will get better. I'm not only talking about Iyer in particular, it's about a sixth option in general. You will have to give them chances; only then you will have options. Right now, it feels like you aren't confident enough to back him,” said Zaheer.
South Africa have taken a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. India will have to win the second ODI match to keep the series alive.
(With Cricbuzz Inputs)
