Missed catches made it difficult, says Gill after Indias series loss

New Delhi: India skipper Shubman Gill pointed towards dropped chances as the reason behind their two-wicket defeat to Australia in the second ODI in Adelaide on Thursday.

It was India's second successive loss that enabled Australia to win the three-match ODI series with a game to spare on October 25 in Sydney.

While defending a 265-run target, India soiled at least three chances, including one of Matthew Short who made 74 off 78 balls to take Australia home in 46.2 overs.

"We had just enough runs on the board. Never easy when you drop a couple of chances to be able to defend that kind of a total," Gill said at the post-match presentation ceremony, also pointing out that the pitch was good to bat on.

"In the first game, the toss was more crucial because of the rain, but in this one both teams played for almost 50 overs. The wicket did a little early on, but it settled nicely after 15–20 overs."

Rohit Sharma, whom Gill succeeded as the ODI skipper before the series, was India's top score with 73 runs off 97 balls, including two sixes. Gill lauded the former skipper's determination to battle in front of probing bowling of the Aussies.

"Never easy, coming back and playing after a long time. The initial phase was challenging, but very pleased with how he batted. He fought out well; I would say he missed out on a really big knock,” the India skipper said.

Australia captain Mitchell Marsh praised his team's bowling unit composure shown by the younger batters.

"Hazlewood was unbelievable. Our bowling unit kept trying to pick wickets. It was awesome batting from the youngsters — the future is bright for Australian cricket. We’ll certainly enjoy the series win, won’t celebrate too much tonight. India are a fantastic side, great experience," Marsh said.