After Rajkot ODI loss, India’s assistant coach calls for stronger performance from spinners

India assistant coach calls for better spin show after Rajkot ODI loss to New Zealand.

India’s spinners came under the scanner after the team suffered a seven-wicket defeat to New Zealand in the second ODI at Rajkot, allowing the visitors to level the three-match series 1-1. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said India fell short in key areas, particularly in the middle overs.

“We need to bowl better than we did tonight,” ten Doeschate said. “It’s not just one reason for the loss; multiple factors contributed. But spin performance, especially lengths, is an area we’ll review closely.” Daryl Mitchell starred for New Zealand with an unbeaten 131, taking on India’s left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav from the start. Kuldeep struggled, conceding 82 runs in his 10 overs for just one wicket, while Ravindra Jadeja went wicketless despite being economical.

India had early breakthroughs, removing both openers to leave New Zealand at 46 for 2. However, loose deliveries and conservative field placements allowed Mitchell and Will Young to take control. Mitchell sealed the win with a scoop to the boundary, completing a chase of 285.

Ten Doeschate stressed that India’s loss was a collective issue and highlighted the need for sharper execution from the bowling unit in upcoming matches.