We were a bit too defensive: Ganguly | Latest News India - Hindustan Times
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We were a bit too defensive: Ganguly

PTI | ByPress Trust of India, Bangalore
Mar 28, 2005 06:25 PM IST

Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly on Monday gave full credit to Pakistani spinners for bowling out his side on a "good batting wicket" to win the third Test.

Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly on Monday admitted that the team had adopted a "defensive" approach after lunch on the final day but gave full credit to Pakistani spinner for bowling out his side on a "good wicket" to win the match and level the series 1-1.

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"With just one wicket down at lunch we did not think we will lose nine wickets. But we were a bit too defensive after lunch and Pakistan bowlers did a very good job," Ganguly said after India lost the third and final Test by 168 runs.

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Chasing a target of 383 runs, the hosts went into lunch at 102 for one but then wickets countinued to tumble at regular interval as the Indian innings folded at 214.

Asked to comment on the wicket, Ganguly said the pitch was good even on the fifth day and gave full credit to the opposition.

"It was good wicket. It was a bit up and down but that is expected on the fifth and final day but it was surely not unplayable."

On India's game plan going into the final day, the Indian skipper said they had decided to just go in and bat and not worry about the target.

Ganguly said the upcoming one-day series would also be a close encounter as the pitches would be flat and added that they would try and give their best.

Pakistani skipper Inzamam-ul Haq was visibly elated with his team's performance and gave full credit to his bowlers and vice-captain Younis Khan for the win.

"The boys worked really hard and showed tremendous character, especially Younis, Danish Kaneria, Mohammad Sami and Shahid Afridi," Inzamam said.

Inzamam, who became the first Pakistan captain to lead his team to victory in his 100th Test match, said this tie was special for him as he not only scored a century but more importantly his team won and levelled the series.

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