"I think we batted well. But if we are to pick situations where we could have closed the game quite comprehensively, those were the situations we did not grab. It is a bit disappointing, but overall a good result as it keeps us alive in the series," he said after the third ODI ended in a tie to leave New Zealand 2-0 up in the series.
Chasing 315 for a win, India ended at 314 for nine with Ravindra Jadeja (66 not out) very nearly pulling off a sensational victory though he failed to take the visitors home in the end. India will now have have to win the remaining two matches in Hamilton (Jan 28) and Wellington (Jan 31).
Dhoni said the run chase could have been easier had India restricted New Zealand less than the 314 they scored.
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"The bowlers who bowled quick, their strengths are all about going full and going for yorkers. And, when it does not happen that way, then you got hit," he said, talking about his bowlers' performance.
He patted Jadeja and R Ashwin (65), who shared 85 runs for the seventh wicket to raise India's hopes of a stunning win, for their gutsy efforts.
"I had faith in them (Ashwin and Jadeja), but my problems started when Jadeja told Bhuvi what he needs to do.