Cyclone Sanath awaits unpredictable indian ship

This world cup already has it’s cup full with shocks and shames both on and off the field. If Bob’s unfortunate and now suspicious death combined with Inzamam’s resignation was not enough, India’s loss against Bangladesh has ensured great headache for sponsors and ICC marketing time alike. Left only to blame themselves for such a situation, the Indian team now faces the inspired islanders in a must win contest.

To my horror and chagrin when my predictions came true on 17th March, I was really upset to say the least. Even after giving full credit to our eastern neighbours we should admit that it was team India’s poor show, lack of application and overconfidence which did them in. They have restored a bit of those by a comfortable win against Bermuda and to their credit have managed to put the NRR almost out of equation now. Unless some miracle unfolds, a win against Lanka would put India into super 8, that too with 2 important points. However, this is easier said than done and could be improbable given Lanka’s current form.

Barring the skipper everyone is in golden touch and confident in the island team. Quite contrary to our liking, everyone of them has become a match winner on their day. Indian bowling looks too mediocre to make them all out and in case we have to chase then only god could save us. On recent form, it is almost improbable to think that we could defeat Srilanka, but given the uncertainty of the game and our performance still anything could happen. However, in my view, if India has to win then Utthapa, Shewag and Dravid would be the key players. This is because – by law of average Ganguly might fail, Yuvi is most uncomfortable against quality spin and sachin’s record in crunch situation is on the wane. That leaves Dravid as the key man with the two dashing and flashy right handers to demolish the bowling. Dhoni at best could do a filler or finisher’s job. If all the seniors fire that would be a bonus and plus for India. In such a serious match seniors should take up responsibility and share the burden. Harbhajan should play instead of Kumble (in case only one spinner plays) and Sreesanth should replace Agarkar.

Take the best shot and always remember that offence is the bets defence. If we manage to post around 275 on the board then we have a fight on hand. Else, the big three of Indian cricket would have the most unwanted farewell they could have bargained for.