Bowling and fielding let us down against Sunrisers: Steve Smith

Mumbai, May 7 (IANS)

Rajasthan Royals' Steve Smith on Thursday said poor bowling and some sloppy fielding by the team helped the Sunrisers Hyderabad sneak away with a seven-run victory in the Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter at the Brabourne stadium here on Thursday. Set 202 to win, Royals could only manage 194/7 despite Smith's 68 off 40 balls.

"I think we went wrong with the ball. We gave away too many loose balls to some very good batsmen. Our fielding was not up to the mark as well. So I think we let ourselves down with both the ball and in the field," Smith said at the post-match press conference here.

Asked about the decision to field and not bat after winning the toss, Smith said: "I think this should be put to skipper Shane (Watson).

"But I think we chased down totals a few times this year. I think our batting is suited to chasing. But as I said earlier we let ourselves down with the ball and in the field, giving away too many runs."

Smith impressed by the pitch at the Brabourne stadium

The 25-year-old praised the nature of the wicket, saying it was a good strip to bat on.

"Very nice wicket to bat on. The last game against Delhi Daredevils also was a good wicket to bat on. We have touched 190-195. The outfield is fast as well," he said.

The Australian further added that a win would have taken them to the playoffs, but they must now concentrate on the upcoming games to do better.

"Obviously it would have been nice to win today and secure a place in the play-offs. But we have a few more games to go. We have a few positives to take out from this game," Smith said.