BCCI proud of Indian team despite semifinal exit

Mumbai, March 27 (IANS) BCCI president Jagmohan Dlamiya said on Friday the Indian board is proud of its team as it "played some outstanding cricket" in the World Cup Down Under before crashing out in the semi-finals against Australia.

In its quest to retain its title, the Mahendra Singh Dhoni-captained side remained undefeated in the group stage. They overwhelmed Bangladesh in the quarter-finals. But their run was halted by co-hosts and four-time champions Australia in the last eight stage with a 95-run victory on Thursday in Sydney.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Dalmiya said the team has brought a lot of joy to millions of fans.

“I congratulate the entire Indian cricket team for having played some outstanding cricket in the World Cup 2015. They have indeed displayed some admirable skills while playing the game in its true spirit, and thereby, bringing joy to millions of cricket fans," Dalmiya said in a release.

"In spite of the disappointment due to the loss in the semi-final, the fact that the impending generation has showed the desired potential to take Indian cricket to greater heights is quite gratifying.”

BCCI secretary Anurag Thakur took the opportunity to thank the Indian cricket fans for supporting the team.

“Being present at the venue and having witnessed the match, I was privy to the excitement and joy that our Indian team brings to the spectators," he said.

"I take this opportunity to thank all our fans across the world and especially those who were present for the semi-final and supported Team India," Anurag added.

The secretary also congratulated the members of the team for "their outstanding performance while upholding the values which have long embodied the game of cricket".