SportsPosted at: Oct 30 2026 5:47PM


Iyer admits India fell short with ball, flags Powerplay lapse as turning point

Auckland, Oct 30 (UNI) India's inability to contain New Zealand during the Powerplay, particularly in the third over, proved costly in the fourth T20 International, skipper Shreyas Iyer admitted, acknowledging that the hosts seized momentum early through Glenn Phillips' explosive batting.
India suffered an 87-run defeat after Phillips' breathtaking century powered New Zealand to a commanding total, helping the hosts level the five-match series.
"We fell a bit short in our bowling to start with. Powerplay, especially in the third over, they got that momentum from there on," Iyer said after the match.
Admitting that India's bowlers struggled to contain the New Zealand batsmen despite attempts to rein in the scoring, Iyer singled out Phillips for his exceptional knock and remarkable strokeplay.
"Exceptional knock by Glenn. Some phenomenal shots, which were like pure bliss. So kudos to him. He's been consistent throughout the series, so lot to learn from him," he said.
Iyer said the team would use the break before the next match in Hamilton to assess its shortcomings and work on a stronger response.
"I personally feel that we can probably go back to the drawing board and see to it we analyse and try to execute to the best of our abilities in the next game," he said.
On India's adjustment to New Zealand's ground dimensions, Iyer acknowledged that the conditions posed a challenge, particularly for players experiencing such grounds for the first time.
He, however, pointed out that the team had adapted well during the first three matches and described the experience as a learning curve.
"The way they executed the first three games, it was magnificent, and yeah, this is just a learning curve," he said, expressing hope that India would return with a positive approach in the next encounter.
The fifth T20I will be played in Hamilton as India look to regain the series lead.
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Tags: #Iyer admits India fell short with ball# flags Powerplay lapse as turning point
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