Brief Scores:
West Indies – 241/9 (in 50 overs) – Samuels 63(70), D.Smith 32(15);
Pakistan – 187/10 (in 47 overs) – S.Malik 62(54), D.Smith 36-3;
MoM – Dwayne Smith.
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This is not a common run of the mill match report that normally appears in every national or regional dailies (not to mention the in-numerous Internet sites and news channels), but an attempt to look back what I thought characterized this opening salvo of WC 2007.
True to the best of my prediction, Pakistan produced a lacklustre performance in every department of the game to hand over the Windies what could be one of their most easy yet important wins. This would do more harm to Pakistan than putting the host in a better frame of mind. However, for the hosts the super eight would be the platform for challenging performances. At this point of time this win would definitely help them to regain their mental composure after their shabby performance in the warm up match. Inzamam was unimpressive as captain as ever, Lara didn’t have to face pressure and none of the teams tested each other. The biggest worry for Pakistan would be the sudden uncertainity found in the play of Md.Yousuf and Younis Khan. If Pakistan has to move forward then it has to be their batting and with Rana, Kaneria or Rao to share the bowling this could be the biggest uphill that Inzamam has to climb. On the other hand, windies had a perfect finish (horrible start) and they would be better off to remember that except Samuels none other looked confident in the middle.
From here onwards, the next few matches would be against non test playing nations which theoretically should be a cakewalk for all test teams. Even though this is a game of uncertainty, however, I don’t expect too much of a show from the minnows at the expense of bigger teams. With due respect to ICC, this format I don’t think support these weaker teams to come up the ladder. Having said these, I am really worried about India’s first match on 17th. Not because Bangladesh has the reputation of pulling up upsets, but the memory of 1999 WC match against Zimbabwe still haunts me.
If we leave the weaker teams with their practice and enjoyment through this carnival, we could safely come back here to discuss India’s start on 17th. Till then, like the billion counterparts, my frequent prayers continue.
