India captain
Shreyas Iyer admitted that his team fell short in all three departments after suffering a seven-wicket defeat against New Zealand in the fifth and final T20I at Seddon Park on Sunday. Despite clinching the five-match series 3-2, Iyer pointed to India's inability to maintain momentum with the bat, coupled with an underwhelming bowling and fielding display, as key reasons behind the defeat.
India posted 191/8 after being asked to bat first, with Ishan Kishan and Iyer producing impressive half-centuries. However, the visitors failed to capitalise on their strong recovery after losing both set batters in quick succession.
New Zealand made the most of India's shortcomings in the field and chased down the target in just 17.4 overs. Tim Seifert led the charge with a blistering 93 off 50 deliveries, while Glenn Phillips remained unbeaten on 65 off 38 balls to guide the hosts to a comfortable seven-wicket victory.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Iyer acknowledged that India could have done better after building a promising platform with the bat.
"It was plausible, honestly. We could have been better…