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[Saba Sports News] Ricky Ponting expressed disappointment and embarrassment over Delhi Capitals’ bowling after a significant 106-run defeat to Kolkata Knight Riders in Visakhapatnam, where KKR posted the IPL’s second-highest total of 272/7. This match also saw Rishabh Pant incur a hefty INR 24 Lakhs fine for the team’s second slow over-rate offense this season. Ponting emphasized the urgent need for corrective measures.
Describing the match’s first half as nearly embarrassing, Ponting criticized the team for conceding too many runs, bowling 17 wides, and the slow over-rate, which resulted in reduced fielding restrictions towards the match’s end. He highlighted these issues as unacceptable and anticipated productive discussions within the team to address these shortcomings immediately.
Ponting also pointed out missed opportunities, such as failed review decisions during critical moments of the game. These included instances where Narine, who eventually scored 85 off 39 balls, and Shreyas Iyer, were given chances to build their innings after Pant hesitated to call for reviews.
Beyond the specific incidents, Ponting voiced concerns over the overall bowling strategy, field placements, and the team’s prolonged duration to complete overs, stressing the need for improvement in these areas to compete effectively in future matches. He acknowledged that while these issues did not directly influence the match’s outcome, they pose significant challenges that could impact the team’s performance in the tournament. Ponting concluded by stressing the importance of being critical of their performance and finding ways to improve for their upcoming games.