Top-order failure did us in, says Goswami

Nottingham:

India women's captain Jhulan Goswami blamed the top-order failure as the reason for their Twenty20 semi-final loss against New Zealand but asserted that her side played to their potential in the tournament.

"146 was difficult target, but the wicket was also very good. It was indeed chaseable, had the top order clicked. And I think all we needed was a good start, but we could not do it," a dejected Goswami said after her side's 52-run loss.

After Kiwi skipper Aimee Watkins' unbeaten 89 guided New Zealand to a challenging 145 for five, Indians buckled under pressure and a pathetic batting display saw India manage just 93 for nine in their stipulated 20 overs.

Goswami, however, felt her team has lived upto the expectation in the tournament and reckoned the experience will come in handy in future.

"Girls have performed superbly. Losing a match is a part of the game itself, but the experience will certainly help us do better in future," Goswami said.

Meanwhile, an elated Watkins who was also adjudged player of the match, exuded confidence about crossing the final hurdle on Sunday and clinch the title.

"It was a complete performance on our part. To make it to the final is quite pleasing. The pitch was little bit slower but we did well," she said.

"The whole team is very exited as we will play the final in Lord's and just watch out for us on the day," she said.