Just 45 minutes of bad cricket saw us bow out of the World Cup, Bharat Arun reiterates Kohli sentiment

India endured a massive heartbreak in the semi-final against New Zealand as they succumbed to a narrow 18-run loss at the hands of the Black Caps despite a late fightback from tailenders - MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja. Virat Kohli & Co. looked in pole position to win the semi and seal a berth in the final after the end of the first innings but a disastrous opening 45 minutes which saw opening batsmen Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli depart after scoring just one run each killed their morale.

"We performed with consistency and aggression and were the team of the World Cup till the semifinal, topping in a gruelling format revived after 1992. 

"The whole team was heart-broken. Just 45 minutes of bad cricket saw us out. Also India batting on the second day hurt us. The ball always does things in the mornings in England and it moved. On Day One, the pitch actually eased out and the momentum was with us," India bowling coach Bharat Arun said in a recent interview with Sportstar. 

Arun, who has played four ODIs and two Test matches for India, added that all the hate directed towards 2011 World Cup-winning captain MS Dhoni is extremely ‘unfair’ as he is a legend within the Indian team.

"It was very unfair. He has contributed so much to the Indian team, is a legend. In fact, on many occasions Virat Kohli bounces ideas off Dhoni, respects him. In the semifinal, we were all confident till Dhoni was there. We could see he was lining himself up for the big hits in the final over. Sadly, the run-out happened.

"It has to be seen to be believed. Rohit often runs up to Kohli to discuss things. They get along very well, share great admiration for each other’s ability. Kohli led the side well, is maturing as a captain and it’s nice that he has Rohit for support. The spirit in the camp was wonderful throughout," Arun added.