 |  The cricket we played in this tournament was simply outstanding |
Acting Indian captain Rahul Dravid was critical of his team's efforts with the bat as they lost the TVS Cup final to Australia in meek fashion. "It was a terrible batting performance," said Dravid, who led India in the absence of Sourav Ganguly, stricken by a groin strain.
"A total of 235 was gettable, but the batsmen let us down."
India dropped five catches in all and Dravid was forced to admit: "We did not have a good day in the field."
He felt that despite the fielding errors - VVS Laxman astonishingly dropped four of those catches - it was a good effort from his bowlers.
But his side were simply not good enough in the second half of the match. "Australia deserved to win," added Dravid.
Dravid (49) and Sachin Tendulkar (45) alone offered some resistance in a day-night match of fluctuating fortunes.
Australian captain Ricky Ponting said: "The cricket we played in this tournament was simply outstanding.
"I am extremely happy with our performance as we missed our regular fast bowlers.
"It shows the depth of Australian cricket. We kept improving with each match."
India suffered big setbacks when seamer Andy Bichel uprooted Tendulkar's off-stump and then spinner Michael Clarke bowled Dravid.
"I think it was my day," said Clarke. "It was a great experience bowling in India. I am happy with my performance."
Clarke took the man-of-the-match award with 44 not out off just 28 balls and 2-36.
MMIX
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