Early Wickets, Run-Outs Pushed Aussies On Backfoot, Says Jadeja

Melbourne, Feb 3: Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja today said early wickets and fours run-outs made all the difference in his side's eight-wicket win over Australia in second Twenty20 International against Australia here.

“The turning point was early wickets and the run-outs we managed. It kept them (Australia) on the backfoot and we made sure we carried the momentum through,” said Jadeja.

After restricting Australia to 131 in 19.4 overs, riding on some brilliant fielding and disciplined bowling, the Indians overhauled the target with two balls to spare to record their first overseas victory in close to seven months.

The all-rounder from Saurashtra, who was adjudged the Man-of-the-Match for his figures of one for 16 from three overs and for effecting two run-outs of Australian captain George Bailey and opener Aaron Finch, said his young team entered the field today with the determination to do well.

“There was good energy. The boys were extremely positive going into the game. We wanted to give a good account of ourselves and not be affected by the 0-4 scoreline of the Test series,” insisted Jadeja.

The 23-year-old, meanwhile, opined that the wickets here are offering little help to spinners.

“These are very different wickets to India. These are flat wickets and the ball doesn't quite grip the surface. I was trying to bowl slow and mix it up.

“I am trying to vary my pace. This way I could help the team. In next matches, if I get such wickets, I would try to mix it up.”

Having played a crucial role in India's first overseas win in close to seven months, Jadeja hoped that his team would carry this momentum in the upcoming triangular One-day International series, beginning here on Sunday.

“It's good that it has happened at the MCG where we would play our first ODI on Sunday. We would take heart from this win. We now know these conditions and it would give us confidence,” he said.