"Didn't Think We Could Get To 190": Rohit Sharma After Win In 1st T20I vs West Indies

Indian captain Rohit Sharma wants his batters to "carry on longer" and convert their starts into substantial scores. Rohit, and then Dinesh Karthik, lifted India to a competitive 190 from an uncomfortable 138 for six in the 16th over, a total which proved enough for the visitors to record a 68-run win in the first T20 International against the West Indies. While Rohit set up the platform with a 44-ball-64, it was Karthik's calculated assault -- an unbeaten 41 off 19 balls -- that powered India in the final stages of their innings on a track with spongy bounce, and a little bit of turn and grip.

"We knew it's going to be slightly tough, the shot making wasn't easy at the start. The guys who are set need to carry on for longer and the way we finished off the first innings was a great effort," Rohit said at the presentation ceremony.

"When we finished the first 10 overs, we didn't think we could get to 190. It was a great effort from the boys and great finish. There are three facets of the game which we are trying to improve.

"We have got to try and back the ideas about executing it with the bat. We want to try certain things and all in all I thought it was a great effort," Rohit, who is preparing to lead the team in the upcoming T20 World Cup, added.

For coach Rahul Dravid, almost all the strategic changes in the playing XI seemed to work.

Suryakumar Yadav (24 off 16 balls) provided an interesting option as an opener while the manner in which Arshdeep Singh deceived a rampaging Kyle Mayers with a short delivery spoke volumes about his temperament.

"Certain pitches will not allow you to do that and we need to assess how we go about. It is all about backing your skills and strengths.

"I love playing here in West Indies.