SPORTS

Chappell stands by his batsmen

August 29, 2005 22:45 IST

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India coach Greg Chappell was satisfied with the improvement in his team's batting following their crushing 161-run triangular series victory over Zimbabwe on Monday.

"Each day it's getting better," Chappell told a news conference. "We're getting used to the extra bounce, and I'm not overly concerned.

"We haven't batted as well as we can in Sri Lanka and here but most of the guys have made runs at stages, and hopefully we'll click together before the end of this tour."

Chappell said his coaching staff were beginning to see the fruits of their labours.

"We have pushed the guys further than they have been inclined to be pushed, both mentally and physically, and we are starting to see the results," he said.

Chappell had sympathy for the outclassed Zimbabweans who were bowled out for a paltry 65.

"They have a fairly young, inexperienced team and it takes time to succeed at this level," he said. "I admire the players' pluck to keep coming back. For the sake of cricket I wish they could perform well."

Zimbabwe coach Kevin Curran said his team's fate was sealed early in their innings.

"We lost six wickets in the first 13 overs and you will struggle to come back from that, loose shots cost us dearly," Curran said.

"It wasn't the type of fight I'd like to see in any teams that I coach."

Curran promised his players plenty of hard work.

"The work ethic hasn't been there, and it's going to be a tough job in the coming months," he said. "A lot of these players have lacked coaching at this level." 

Source: REUTERS
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