India vs Australia - Series Preview

Unpredictable and Patience are two words that could eventually shape the outcome of the upcoming series.  The unpredictability and the vulnerability make this series such an anticipated contest.  Questions such as will Australian batsman finally fire?  Are Indian bowlers capable of taking 20 wickets in at least 2 tests to ensure first series victory in Australia? Perhaps the most important question is how will the injury toll be at end of the series?  Second word that could define the tactical battle is the patience of Indian batsman and the patience of young Australian bowlers. 

The unpredictable part adds to excitement makes it a hard series to predict the winner but the patience battle could decide the outcome.  Below is the preview of the patience battle that will be shape the series.

Australian Bowling

If the pitches are to go by the history of the past Indian series in Australia then expect batting wickets for the four tests. If that is the case then it comes down to the patience of Australia bowlers.

It should be the plan of Australian young attack to ensure Indian batsmen are made to score of the front foot on the offside. Despite the class of Laxman, Dravid and Tendulkar , there reflexes have demise slightly and they could struggle to play off the front foot on the bouncy wickets.  It is imperative they stick to that line outside the off stump and make the Indian batsman come at them. Fortunately, for Australia they have selected bowlers who can stick to that line and move the ball slightly away. The likes of Hilfenhaus and Pattinson are capable of the executing these plans and if they are patience with their line they will get the rewards. The best advise for the Australian bowlers will be the way the Englishman bowled especially in the 3^rd test at Trent Bridge, they bowled full and were driven a lot but also managed to get wickets.

As an Australian bowler if they manage to get the Indian batsman to score in excess of 50% of the runs off the front foot at the end of the series, they should be confident to be on the winning side.

Indian Batting:

The Indian batting should look to work totally opposite and ensure the young Australian attack bowl at their strengths. This means if the batsman play the patience game with the bat and allow lot of balls to pass though to the keeper, it will make the Australian either dig the ball in short or bowl at the stumps. It doesn’t take to be Einstein to work out any bowl pitching on the line of the stumps can be played through the onside by the Indian batsman, so it is paramount the Indians make sure they make the Australians impatient and change their line of attack.

No doubt Dravid will play a big hand in the patience strategy and if the likes of Tendulkar and Laxman follow this strategy the runs will be on a platter for them. Offcourse each of these modern day greats have batted enough and have the mental game to tire out the Australian bowlers.

As for Sehwag and Gambhir they should be recommended to watch the highlights of the 1^st session of the MCG test, exactly 8 years from now. Most people remember Sehwag brilliant innings of 195 but there was a secret behind it. India was none for 22 after 15 overs and none for 48 after the 25 over mark on Day 1. Furthermore, Sehwag was hit in the head 2 times and so was Aakash Chopra, they left a lot of balls and were still batting at lunch. Gambhir and Sehwag who are best of mates should watch that session over and over again, as that was the success for the day, match and the series.

Similar to Australia bowlers, if the Indian at the end of the series have scored majority of the back foot and the leg side shots have been prominent they will create history by winning the series down under for the first time.

Players

What players will me the most significant on the outcome ?

Australia:

Hussey:  Michael Hussey is the most important batsman for Australia, he has the benefits of facing Ashwin and he is a left hander. Apart from Zaheer Khan none of the Indian bowlers have the plan to trouble the Australian left handers.  Hussey could be a deciding factor in this series.

Siddle: Pattinson brilliant debut has allowed Siddle to go under the radar, but Siddle is in career best form. If Peter Siddle continues to bowl that fuller length even on flatter batting wickets he could well be leading wicket taker this series. Siddle has now added the bowl that moves away from right handers which makes his potent. Secret for Siddle is he must pitch the ball up.

India

Zaheer:  Zaheer is India’s most important player and no wonder he has kept himself in cotton wool. Keep it simple if he plays the first 3 matches and the batsman score sufficient runs then India will win the series.

Dhoni:  Indian captain bats behind a solid top 6 but there will be times in the series he has to make runs or at least stay at the wicket. Dhoni is capable of the tough runs in tough situations and there could well be a series deciding situation in which he will have to play a significant innings.  Similar to world cup there is likely to be one innings and he needs to produce.

There will be contest within contests for the the whole series and it should make it fascinating viewing for viewers around the world.  Six months ago the Indian had a excuse as they were recovering from the enigma of winning the world cup but this time there will be no excuses.

One thing is for sure just like the world cup was a dream for team so is the Australian series. Sachin, Dravid and Laxman will not sleep easily unless Australia has been conquered as a team and surely this is their last chance.  They will not admit it but the World Cup and Australia series was always the marquee for this year, one has been achieved and the journey for the other dream starts tomorrow.

LEAVING ON LENGTH

Back in the 1980’s when the WACA pitch was at its quickest a despondent NSW team was about to play a match against Western Australia, for the visitors the WACA was as alien to them as it is for sub-continent players. To ensure the NSW succeeded on the bouncy track the coach asked his players before the training session to leave as many balls as possible. The whole point of exercise was the coach wanted the batsman to leave the ball on length.  This meant lot of the balls on good length, were allowed to pass through to the keeper.  This radical exercise ensured the batsman had the correct mindset and were content on leaving the ball so they didn’t get caught behind the wicket.

Before the start of the West Indies tour MS Dhoni might have claimed “the Australia tour is too far ahead” but there is a key element of batting technique some of his young batsman need to work on at least in the nets before the ship sets sail for Australia.

Former and the current batsman have built their success by mastering the art of leaving the ball. It is technique that is not taught and rightly so as it takes each individual own judgment to develop the skill. Players such as Dravid and Gavaskar were perfect examples on which ball to leave outside the off stump. Aakash Chopra, the former Indian batsman has quoted “for a batsman there is equal satisfaction in leaving a good ball and driving one through the covers”.  Knowing which ball to leave is decision based on two main aspects line and length.

Leaving on line is skill that is accomplished a lot easier by Indian batsman. The likes of Virat Kholi, Yuvraj, Rohit Sharma and Raina are able to adjust their shots if they misjudge the line of a delievery on Indian conditions, this is because there is lack of pace off the wicket. This also works to their advantage as the players have learned to play the ball late of the wicket and use their hands to guide the ball. This technique is exposed on faster pitches such as Australia, South Africa and England. The English tour was a perfect example where lot of the youngsters in the one-dayers or tests were troubled and caught behind the wicket.  

In England it was the movement and bounce that troubled the batsman. Australian pitches wouldn’t have same amount of movement as England but will definitely have more bounce. This is where the art of leaving on length becomes vital to learn.

Duncan Fletcher should already been asking the Rohit Sharma and Kholi’s to watch tapes of Mark Taylor batting at the WACA or Matthew Hayden at the GABBA. The number of times both Taylor and Hayden  leave the ball that passes over off-stumps is a feature of their batting. The quicker the players realize a ball pitching 7m to 8m to the stumps will pass over the stump the easier batting will get in Australia. Even deliveries that pitch on the 7m to 8m that jag back sharply should be left comfortably on length.

Due to the true bounce of the Australian wickets the art of leaving on length is often easier to put into practice. The bounce is consistent and the bounce can be trusted by the batsman unlike other conditions.  The guide down to third man is such an effective scoring area on the slow low wickets but on quicker wickets that shot needs to be replaced by a leave outside off stump or the batsman will risk getting caught behind the wicket.  It is a principle that needs to be set into the youngsters mind before then land in Australia.

Sachin Tendulkar has always had his unique methods as part of training before a foreign tour, it may be worthwhile the likes of Kholi, Rahane, Rohit and Gambhir practice on concrete pitches and get practice on leaving the ball rather than following it with their hands. It is skill that needs to be prepared in the mind.

If a state team in the 80’s was able to take up such an approach there is no reason to believe why an international team cannot have a similar approach. If the younger players can land in Australia and have the mindset of “leave the ball” that is not going to hit the stumps and cut out the fancy dabs down to third man or behind point they similar to NSW team would have won half the battle at least in their mind.

RESURGENCE OR REVENGE ?

Team India it is time to forget about the DJ’s, cheerleaders, three hour matches in form of Champions League and time to resurge the national cricket team to the top again. The series against England at home is the chance the players should have been waiting for to restore the pride of the nation.  Although missing a few stars it in an opportunity for some youngsters to shine and resurge Indian cricket. 

The task seems harder with the few of the senior players ruled out due to injury. It is time to move forward and use injuries as excuses. At home India has always been formidable and the youngsters have to play with pride and use their experience in home conditions.  People have been claiming this as the “revenge” series but it should be noted as “resurgence” series. 

There are three players for whom this series will prove pivotal and could well open the door for them in the longer format. 

Ajinkya Rahane

Akinkya Rahane continued his good form with another 100 in Irani trophy last week and needs to make this series count. The 30’s and 40’s in England were impressive but now he has experience at the elite level, he has to convert them into big scores.  Important lesson for Rahane is to ensure he bats the way he does in four day matches, that is by playing authentic cricket shots and batting for long time. Rahane has good technique and for opening batsman is very good against spin bowling, so to bat all 50 over’s should be the objective. The stage is set not for a cameo but for lead role.

Ravichandran Ashwin

To many people he is the best spinner in the country. With the selectors dropping Harbhajan it is time for him to prove he can lead the attack. The most important aspect for Ashwin is to prove he can be a wicket taker and not just an economical bowler.  Ashwin troubled the English batsman on the dry wicket at the Oval and at home he will relish the chance to bowl at them.  Another great benefit for Ashwin is trust his captain has him to deliver at the critical stages.  If he can back up his captain again by performing while the match hangs in the balance, a test debut would not be far away. 

Umesh Yadav

Last donned the tri colours in Zimbabwe about 18months ago and failed to impress many but has coming along long way in last 18 months. Umesh Yadav has changed his action and can now ball a good outswinger at decent pace. In the Irani trophy last week, he was definitely the most impressive bowler on a flat deck.  Yadav did the hard yards by bowling long spells in Emerging tour down under and went under the radar as the focus was on Varun Aaron.  Yadav might go for runs but he is definite wicket taker and if he can pick up wickets and continue to bow at 140 plus he could have his second trip to Australia end of the year.   

 It is only mid October but the domestic and the international cricket season ahead is perhaps the most anticipated one in India after a long time. The retirement of the seniors on the horizon, injury list, player selections, tour of Australia and chance to view into the future of Indian cricket makes it exciting season ahead. It all starts in couple of days against England and it this series is to start the resurgence not a revenge. 

BACK INTO THE FUTURE

In July 1996 at the home of cricket, Lords, a place where people are immaculately dressed, the pavilion is hertiage building, good leave outside the off stump is appreciated, and the perfect technique is respected, Indian great Rahul Dravid made his debut.  No other cricketer over the past 15 years would have been better suited to the customs at Lords.  At that point in time had Rahul Dravid sat in the time machine and gone forward 15 years, he may have wondered what a debut for Rahul Dravid would be like in the current age of cricket? Well, during his brief twenty20 debut innings he had a vision of it only 15 yards down the pitch.

On the other end was young man from Mumbai in Ajinkya Rahane. The Mumbaikar is almost the same age that Dravid was when he made his debut in the conventional  scene at Lords, but this was Rahane’s  debut  in the perfect scene of modern day cricket – 20 over matches, coloured clothing, the dot ball is booed, edge over the keeper is appreciated and batsmen make a mockery of perfect technique.   Apart from the different settings, there was an immediate impact and there was a parallel between both of these cricketers at the same age.

Although Rahane was in coloured clothing and making his debut in twenty20 cricket, there were glimpses in his batting that showed he is the old style modern day cricketer.

More importantly, Rahane was the student of Mumbai batsmanship and proved himself in the domestic circuit in four-day matches.  The term “four day” is emphasised as this is the missing recipe for selectors when it comes to any format of cricket. In fact, Rahane has a record so impressive that only three batsman in the history of first class cricket average more than Rahane –  Vijay Merchant, Don Bradman and George Headley. 

Rahane, a lad from Dombivilli, an outer middle class suburb in Mumbai went to a school which only had one practice cricket net  for over 300 kids in the local area. The rise to the top has been a long process of proving his ability in school cricket, club cricket, Kanga league, Mumbai academy and then the Irani and Ranji trophy.  Unlike Rohit Sharma or Suresh Raina, he doesn’t have the flair which is so often needed in modern day cricket to make headlines.  What he lacks in flair is made up in dedication and hard work that has led to solid technique.

In his book  The Winning way,  Harsha Bhogle suggests that  what make Rahul Dravid great is that “he became as good as he can be.”  Dravid was never as talented as Sachin Tendulkar, but it is the dedication to get the best out of himself that allowed him to be as good as Tendulkar.  

Similarly Rahane is  known for spending hours in the nets improving his technique. During the IPL season last year when Shane Warne was asked who was the most hard working batsman, he immediately mentioned Ajinkya Rahane. Warne said, “Every optional training session Rahane would be there batting and constantly working on his technique and concentration,” and the spin whizz mentioned he reminded him a lot of Rahul Dravid in terms of the way “he went about things.”

In the recent Emerging tournament in Australia, at the end of the first day’s play against Australia, Rahane was not out on 71. Rahane had fielded the whole day and opened the batting once the opposition had been bowled out. After walking off the field to applause from his coach, Ajinkya politely asked the coach if he could still have a net session before returning to his hotel.

It showed the devotion of a cricketer who is similar to Darvid in the way he gets the best out of himself.

Rahane is also rated highly by his peers.  While chatting amongst the emerging players in Australia, it was evident the respect Rahane has amongst domestic cricketers. A few players asked Rahane if he remembered the last time he got out in domestic cricket.

Even in his twenty20 innings, all the runs were scored by authentic cricket strokes.  Ajinkya credits this to his batting technique which is the primary focus of Mumbai cricket.  It is imperative the selection committee takes notice of such batting talents in domestic cricket and selects them in correct format. Rahane may have made his mark in twenty20 and 50 over cricket internationally but the success is based on solid four day cricket. Over time Dravid adjusted to 50 over cricket, and the likes of Tendulkar and Kallis have also been successful in twenty20 format.

Having bided his time in the Ranji tropy, the biggest difference is that the players such as Rahane really put a value on their wicket. Rahul Dravid once batted for Karanataka in the Ranji trophy match with a fever but still managed to score a 200 not out. It showed the price Dravid had on his wicket even after playing 10 years of international cricket.

Rahane still strives to improve his record despite having set such a high standard. Rahane achieved another goal last year when he did not get out for a single digit score in Ranji tropy match. Rahane’s march to the top is gathering pace. It is important the selectors let him go at his own pace and don’t change it.

At the end of the day it would be nice to sit in a time machine 15 years from now and make Rahane sit in a time machine and go forward, too.

RESCHEDULE DOMESTIC CRICKET

A few years back the BCCI took a step in the right direction in changing the format of Ranji Trophy matches. The induction of the two divisions (Elite and Plate) allowed the developing teams such as Rajasthan or Orissa who excel against the minor opponents to be given a chance against the high profile teams, such as Mumbai or Delhi. The format also meant a team which started off in 2^nd division (Plate Division) could qualify and compete in the Elite division knockout stages. It was the right way to proceed to ensure the Ranji trophy stayed competitive. The time has come to take the next step and ensure that the schedule of the domestic tournaments prioritises four day cricket. The starting point is to have four day matches played throughout the whole season.

It is clear after the England tour debacle that the further focus needs to be on the 4-day games and less on ODI or twenty20. From a technical perspective, the selection process for the test team has also changed. At present, the selection criteria for a player for test cricket seem to be success in twenty20 or ODI format, rather than superlative performance in the 4-day Ranji trophy format. Suresh Raina or Yuvraj are perfect examples of players who are stars in the short format but have never cut it in the longer format. Apart from the hectic international schedule, the other reason players have disappointed in the longer format is because they haven’t played enough four day cricket. Similarly, bowlers are picked on performance of twenty20 or 50 over format.  When was the last time Suresh Raina played a Ranji trophy match? Despite been fit since January, why hasn’t RP Singh played any 4-day format matches? The answer is that the way the domestic schedule is broken into dedicated windows for the different formats does not allow players a chance to play four day cricket.

Compare the Indian domestic schedule to the structure in England, South Africa and Australia. In England, the four day matches for Division 1 and Division 2 are played all the way from the start of April to the end of August.  Throughout those 6 months the twenty20 also continues in parallel with four day county championships. Importantly, it means that, if an England player wants 4-day match practice, then there are matches scheduled throughout the season.  Perfect examples of this scenario are Stuart Broad and Andrew Strauss. In between the India and Sri Lanka series, both players, were able to go back and get “match practice” before returning to the England team.

In Australia, the situation is similar to England with 4-day cricket played from the start of the cricket season in October all the way to the end – the first week of Match. The start of Big Bash this year has meant there is a gap of one month in between. This method is parallel to India’s in the way the IPL window is allocated.

The South Africa four day tournament starts from September and runs all the way into March. There is a dedicated window in November for ODI cricket (40over matches) and another three-week window in February for the twenty20 tournament.

Like India, the three countries mentioned above have a cricket season which lasts for about  six months. The major difference being the four day practice matches are continuously played six months in England, five in Australia and four in South Africa. In India four day games are played only from November to December. Only teams in the top two of the respective groups in the elite league or top team in the plate league move on to the knockout competition in January. This means only six teams in India are playing 4-day cricket for three months. The schedule is further amusing as it caters for two months for ODI competition and then, of course, there is the window at end of season for IPL in May.

This brings us to the predicament that, if a test series is ongoing in India in early October or in February/ March, two times of the year when overseas teams normally do visit India, there are no domestic 4-day matches played across the country. How can a bowler or batsman get match practice during this time? How can a Gambhir or Ishant Sharma get match practice for 4-day matches if the player wants to prepare for a test match during that time?

It is part of the international schedule for India to host at least two ODI series between November and January. This means at least ten ODI during the time intervals. The batsman and bowlers who are in the ODI squad will miss the opportunity to play 4-day cricket during the specified time, so when is the next opportunity? The next available chance will be the Deodhar trophy played for two weeks from mid to late march.  This is in strong contrast to the scheduling in the other three countries.

This presents a dilemma for players such as Suresh Raina or Yuvraj Singh. If India is scheduled to play ODI in November, December and January and a test series in February and March, then what options do Raina and Yuraj have to play 4-day matches in February or March? How can they practise to ensure their four day performances improve? Similarly, RP Singh cannot gain 4-day match practice after January?

Moreover, this system is further exposed for teams which appear in the Plate League Ranji trophy. For teams such as Jharkhand, Orissa or Hyderabad the four day matches are available only for two months. Unless the team qualifies for top position, the likes of Saurabh Tiwary playing for Jharkhand will only play a maximum of nine matches and a minimum of six. Compare this to Australia or England where a player will play a minimum of ten matches. As an example, if Saurabh Tiwary is away with the ODI team in December, the chances are he will only play a maximum of three or four matches. If the four day schedule was to be spread out, it would increase his options to play four day cricket, hence improve his four day skills.

The better approach would be the one followed in Australia and England.  This means a four day match is followed by the one day match against the same opposition in the space of one week. For example, Mumbai will play Bengal in the Ranji trophy match and then after a couple of days play them in an ODI match. This format allows teams to play the four day cricket format over a longer period of time. This means all formats are played through the six months and players who need match practice in either format have the option available. It will also avoid the intense travel schedule for current domestic matches in which they try to cram seven 4-day matches into two months.

There is no doubt the interest in cricket has increased in India and the game has become widespread across the nation. The time has come to ensure all the formats are now played throughout the six months so the next generation is exposed to all formats.

SHORT TERM SUCESS AND LONG TERM FAILURE

A spectator at the Oval held up a banner on the 3^rd day of the Fourth Test that read “Anna Hazare fasts for Team India”. If India is to come back to the motherland with a series whitewash, there may well be a few more people lining up to fast. The test series hammering will go down as one of the worst in Indian cricket history ever since India won its first test match away in 1968. India’s last whitewash was in 1999 against Australia; but back then even the BCCI secretary predicted it. Does that make this test series the worst ever? Was Team India’s short team planning leading to long term failure?

Ineffective planning after World Cup success should be looked upon as the start of the downhill trend for the Indian team. The blame could be sheeted home to the BCCI and also the players to some extent. The first disappointing thing was to schedule the IPL only 3 days after the World Cup final. Did BCCI do this deliberately and take a gamble in case India failed in the World Cup? If it had happened that India didn’t win the World Cup, then the attention would quickly have been diverted to the IPL, and players and BCCI would have escaped the nation’s backlash. Either way, there should have been at least one week in between. In that week, the players should have been paraded across two or three major cities to celebrate a victory which meant so much to the nation, or should have been whisked away to their secret hideout if they had failed. The players should have had time to take the success of the field before their lucrative deals with IPL confined them on the field. This would have allowed the players to relax and take it all in before they started to aim for the next objective in their cricket schedule.

Would the England series have been a disaster had India not won the World Cup? One thing the public of India needs to understand is that the players are human, after all, and the success at the World Cup was physically and mentally draining. It is a normal human behaviour that, once such a goal has been reached through dedication, the mind seems to relax and takes time to become motivated again.  In a business situation, once an employee has worked hard to get a promotion over a period of time, it is common for the individual to sustain the dedication once he/she gets the promotion. The person then needs to re-evaluate his/her goals once at the summit. It takes some time, as an individual and team, to set the next range of goals. Sometimes, people are not used to success and find it difficult to motivate themselves once successful ... or can even become complacent. Team India has suffered from both malaises on this tour.  

 The first time Team India’s new coach and manager came together was only a month before the England tour. The other senior players were not even together only two weeks prior. The planning towards the England tour could never have been a top priority – and if it was, then it was pathetic planning. Virender Sehwag admitted that the players planned for the World Cup final exactly one year before; if this England team was priority, when were players emulating the England series? The World Cup has been a long term goal; good planning by coaches and dedication by players ensured it was executed. Similarly, winning the England series was the goal but no plans were derived for it. This brings us to the question: how much time was required to plan for England? The answers would have been with new coach Duncan Fletcher, M S Dhoni and other senior players. Sadly, the next time all these parties were together was only two weeks prior to the first ball been bowled at Lords. Surely, in the modern world of technology, a plan could have been executed during the IPL. The poor scheduling is a good excuse to the public, but there are defining problems underneath it all.

As so often happens, though, it only takes one successful tour in the short-term future to dissolve memories of the pathetic performance in England. Team India along with the media are masters at washing a bad series away. It won’t come as a surprise, should India win the ODI series, if the news headlines read: “Team India still world champions”, and this test series will be a distant nightmare.

But, in the long term, India will face the proposition of an overseas tour after hectic schedule in the next four months again. One hopes the primary goal should be the series down under in Australia. In between is the Champions trophy (IPL’s brother), ODI series at home against England, test series and ODI against the West Indies at home. It is imperative the BCCI takes input from the team management. Whether the input has fallen on deaf ears will be determined by the schedule and the team selection for the home series against West Indies. The planning and executing could well be the significant factor in whether India can save themselves another embarrassment within six months.

The Australia test series will be nearly a year after the World Cup, and one hopes that, just like the individual in the office who has now found his new goals after his promotion, team India has found theirs. It would be nice to hear Virender Sehwag say, “We started planning for this over four months ago,” after the Adelaide test match in January next year.

BREED THEM EARLY

Greg Chappell recently mentioned there is lack of talented cricketers in Australia compared to sub-continent. But is this a true fact or is there an underlying conspiracy that Greg Chappell was trying to imply.  Conspiracy based on the lines of Australian young cricketers moving on to different sport.

From a young age all kids growing up in Australia are exposed to all sports. This is due to the way sports are structured on seasonal basis. It allows kids to be multi skilled and allows them to be exposed to every sport. Overtime the exposure allows the kids to be complete athlete, meaning they can adapt to any sport.

Practically the young sports men end up playing the sport which eventually presents the best opportunity. It’s this opportunity for the young men in cricket between in the ages of 17 and 21 which seems to be lacking behind compared to other sports.

The lack youngsters coming through in Australia teams is further exposed due to policy of selecting players with sustainable state cricket experience for national team. This has its benefits as seen in Hussey, Haddin and Hodge who are complete players when they reach the top level. Each of players mentioned made their test debuts at the age of 27 or above. However, the age barrier will always act as an obstacle if one is to have a form slump.

This is in contrast to players in sub-continent who are thrown into deep end from the start. There selection can even often by based solely on basis of youth tours. Some of them excel and cement their places but as history reflects lot of them are dropped to re-define their games. But in there instance the age is on their side. Furthermore the youngsters get the feel for the elite level at a tender age. It is practical human thinking once you have been shown the life at the top any individual will want to cling to the opportunity.

Thus the motivation is far greater and the young men strive that for that extra to ensure the keep their places or retain it. Australian cricket has a lot of talented youngsters at age of 17 and over who are not picked even for state cricket. Even if a state team might be out of contention end of the year, it is essential to breed the young men. This will allow them to be involved with cricket and not move to another sport.

In the world of professional sportsmen the peak age for an elite sportsman in Australia has dropped expect for cricket. Rugby and AFL players are reaching peak at 22 rather than 25 or 26. This is also a result of exposing the young men at tender ages of 17 and 18. The question for Australian cricket is if these boys are told to play against men and that too in a physical sport of rugby and AFL then why not cricket.

It is imperative the Australian cricket and state cricket acts upon this issue before further talent is lost to other sport.

Only NSW out of the six states have adopted the approach of breeding young men. Players such as Phillip Hughes, Moses Henriques, Pat Cummings have been thrown into the deep end. It is time for others to follow this trend to ensure Australian cricket once again at top of the world.

Only when this approach is acquired will we really know if talent is really lacking in Australian cricket.

 

HOW INDIA ‘CHASED DOWN’ THE WORLD CUP

Virender Sehwag admitted the planning for the world cup final began exactly one year ago at Dambulla. However the foundation plan that led to India’s world cup victory was scripted more than 5 years ago. The plan was based around India’s necessity to chase down large totals, especially in home conditions.

Chasing totals has always been a thorn for Indian teams in the past. Any successful chase above 250 in the last decade was considered memorable. Victories against Pakistan at Dhacca in 1998 at Independence cup final, Sachin master class against Australia at Sharjah in 1998, Kaif and Yuvraj coming of age at the Natwest final in 2002, incredible chase of 326 against West Indies in Ahmedabad in 2002, and offcourse the famous world cup 2003 chase against Pakistan at Centurion. Although memorable there were far and few in between ten years of constant cricket.

If Greg Chappell is to be given any credit, it will be for identifying this issue and devising a strategy to address this problem. He realised that the Indian middle order failed to close off games despite brilliant starts from the top order.

The answer to this shortcoming centred on Rahul Dravid, the stalwart batsman of the Indian middle order. Batting alongside him were two aggressive stroke makers in M.S. Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh. Dravid would pick up singles and frequently rotate the strike, something that suited his style of batting perfectly. Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh, on the other hand were called upon to take risks. As time progressed, this game plan was imbibed into Yuvraj Singh and Dhoni, who found themselves adjusting their batting according to the situation, thus broadening their batting skills and providing them with much needed confidence to dictate the middle overs.

It’s said that the strength of a philosophy is tested in the absence of the philosopher. Even after Dravid’s departure, the knowledge and experience of Yuvraj Singh and Dhoni made them a formidable pair in the middle order. Both batsmen have since guided India to numerous victories and now can be aptly called, “The Chasing Masters.”

Furthermore, the likes of Suresh Raina and Virat Kohli were thrown into the deep end to ensure this method was conveyed to the next generation. Raina in just his 4th innings against Sri Lanka in 4^th ODI, 2006 at Pune, scored a composed 38 not out and helped India chase down 262. Then again in his 6th and 8th innings against Pakistan and England respectively he scored 35 not out and 81 not out to ensure India got home. The second of these innings in Faridabad coming in at 4/80, young Raina helped India run down target of 268 in 2006.

While Virat Kholi batting at number 3, scored a classy 79 not out helping India overhaul a 175 against West Indies. The innings received special praise as it was against Kemar Roach on bouncy Wanderers track during the Champions Trophy in 2009. Kohli averaged significantly higher whenever India batted second. He scored his first two hundreds while chasing big targets. The first hundred came whilst chasing over 315, coming in at 2/23 after India lost Sehwag and Tendulkar early on against Sri Lanka in 4^th ODI at the Eden Gardens. Kohli further topped that effort scoring 118 to run down a 289 against Australia last year in Vizag.

The secret behind it was to have calm and calculated stroke play. It is easy to panic and attempt the big shot when the required rate is seen hovering at 8 per over, but as the Indian middle order will now advise, it takes only one big over and one settled batsman to change the fortunes of a match.

Results are there to be seen as India chased down targets in 16 successive games when batting second in 2005/06. India’s record chasing a target over 250 also improved significantly. India’s record of 26 wins and 9 loses while chasing over 250, is now rated the best in the world.

Confidence instilled in the middle allowed the top order to bat with further freedom. In fact even the top order was able to finish off matches. Tendulkar batted through the innings against Australia in the 1^st ODI final of Commonwealth bank series in Sydney, 2007. Then in late 2009 at Eden Gardens against Sri Lanka in the 4^th ODI, Gambhir remained unbeaten on 150 as India chased mammoth 315.

During this period of 5 years the team attained self confidence and security that must have given Gary Kirsten confidence at 2/31 in World Cup Final. Finally, all this hard work and belief was paid off when on the biggest stage India has managed “to chase down” the World Cup.

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UDRS: UMPIRE DECISION REVIEW SYSTEM

BCCI opposition for using the UDRS has created more controversy than the famous Sachin Tendulkar’s shoulder before wicket verdict at the Adelaide oval against Australia in 1999. At the time of the incident supporters and experts were livid that such as astonishing decision could have been given by umpire Daryl Harper. But had Hawk- Eye been around, it could well have suggested the ball had clipped the top of the stumps hence backing up umpire Harper’s decision.

This brings us to the debate of whether current UDRS is too technology-focused and ignores the human eye in cricketing judgement.  Decisions which should never have been given out the history of cricket are now being given out; i.e. Tendulkar’s wicket in Adelaide. What does this mean for the best umpires in the past era? Does Hawk-Eye suggest the likes of Dickie Bird or David Shepherd should have given more decisions in favour of the bowlers? What if a batsman is hit on the full around three meters outside the crease and the projected ball path shows it hitting middle stump. Can we give it out when such a decision should never be given. It’s a “Law of cricket” All these questions will remain ambiguous. One thing is for certain with the current application of UDRS:   it reduces the authority of an umpire on the field.

From a cricket perspective, UDRS is definitely beneficial, but the objective of UDRS is to assist umpires to make correct decisions. Over the years technology has assisted batsmen, bowlers, coaches etc and similarly UDRS is there for umpires use only.  Hence, it should only be at a request of the umpire that the technology should be used.

When the technology was first trialled in the 2002 Champions trophy in Sri Lanka, the principle of the trial was that only the umpires could review a decision. This allowed umpires to go on their own instinct and still have a respect for their own decision. Secondly, it meant, in theory, that each and every decision by an umpire could be reviewed, if doubted by the on field umpire himself. This method would eliminate any chance of the umpire making a “howler” of a decision.

The flaw in the current format of reviews used by the batsman and fielding captains is that it is still possible, once all reviews have been used, that an incorrect decision can still occur. The current format still exposes the umpires for incorrect decision and more importantly could still change the fortune of the match, as many believe.

During the World Cup only 12% of the umpiring decisions were overturned, reflecting that, on most occasions, umpires are making correct decisions. In the 12% of times, if the umpire was in doubt he needed further clarification.

Furthermore, ICC could also look into the trial by ensuring the Hawk- Eye technology will only be available to umpires only.  This means the projected path of the ball will not be seen by the television audience. It can be only used by umpires and not made available to the public. This will create less controversy as the public cannot openly criticise umpires. The public should gain confidence that the decision was based upon the use of technology and the expertise of an umpire. Although this option is extreme it could well be needed so umpires attain the respect they deserve.

Now to those who believe current UDRS is efficient, let me point out that current UDRS technology is not up to the task and it too has flaws, similar to the human eye. To ensure UDRS is a complete package it is essential all components of the technology need to be imbedded into UDRS. It makes no sense to have LBW covered by the Hawk-Eye projector while Hotspot and Snicko cannot be used.  It is imperative that Hotspot and Snicko are imbedded into the UDRS if it is to provide the accuracy required to make a correct verdict. 

It should be known to the public that, even with the current growing technology, the speed that a ball is delivered cannot be captured in each frame. In Tendulkar’s decision in the World Cup semi final against Pakistan the impact of the ball on the pad is projected and not the actual impact. Experts may argue it may be marginally off, but this could well make the difference if the ball is clipping the stumps. With Hotspot, the impact spot can be clearly identified, hence eliminating any error. This is why even the most complete batsman of our era is not against UDRS but he wants all the components added into it.

Current concerns with UDRS were exposed during at least two decisions during the World Cup both involving the UDRS antagonist Team India. Tendulkar’s non-dismissal in the semi-final reflects the inaccuracy and more importantly makes mockery of a good decision. Cast your mind back to the same ground with the same player against Australia twelve months ago, Tendulkar was rightly given out against Marcus North but later replays reveal the ball missing the leg. There was no way even the most patriotic supporter would have given Sachin “not out” for either ball.

Letting a batsman decide his own fate in the game of cricket makes further mockery of an umpire. Even if the umpire is in doubt, let the umpire decide for himself if he needs to review it. It should not come to the batsman to ask the umpire to correct his decision when the batsman is the one who has made the initial mistake.

At the end of the day the umpire’s decision, on or off the field, will always remain, so the players and public should rightfully respect it. 

From a supporter’s point of view, an incorrect decision could well change the fortune of a match but so can a missed opportunity. In the current age, even with technological assistance there are bound to be blunders. But isn’t sport about controversies, as well? One tends to forget that the controversies can be the start of conversations about individual players, teams and sports.

After all, cricket is supposed to be gentleman’s game and if this reputation is to continue then cricketers need to believe that the decision made by umpire and 3^rd umpire is correct. Take the decision on the chin and play the game like a gentleman.

WORLD CUP PREVIEW 2011 - 16/02/2011

Only three days remain before the start of the cricket’s most celebrated tournament. Below is the preview of each of the major teams, broken down into batting and bowling strength and weakness, along with key player and the tactics each team will look to employ.

WEST INDIES

West Indies were world cup semi-finalist the last time world cup was played in the sub-continent; sadly this was 16 years ago.  Four years ago as hosts and with Brian Lara at the helm; they failed to even get past the super sixes round. Inconsistency has been a trademark of this team, and a berth in the Quarter Finals could well depend on the result of their match against Bangladesh.

BATTING

Strength:

West Indies will rely heavily on Gayle at the start and Pollard at the finish. Both are capable of clouting the ball to all parts with mighty force, and with spinners expecting to do majority of bowling these two men are vital to their team chances.  In the middle order are the experienced campaigners in Sarwan and Chanderpaul, both play spin extremely well and rotate strike in middle overs to sustain a good run rate provided by Gayle brisk opening. Sarwan especially, has a very good record in the sub-continent. His technique of driving on the rise will be suited on the placid wickets.

Weakness

Too much emphasis will be on Chris Gayle to provide a rapid start. There is no other player in the top five who can intimidate and demoralise the opposition bowlers.  All-rounders Dwayne Bravo and Pollard, are “hit out” or “get out” players particularly if tied down for couple of overs.  Both players are in favour of playing a big shot rather than working singles to accumulate the runs. This style of batting may provide their downfall when required to bat 25 or 30 overs.

BOWLING

Strength

West Indies strength in bowling is the variation. Kemar Roach has raw pace, who has the tendency to skid the ball, can work to his advantage in the sub-continent. Suleiman Benn and Chris Gayle provide left arm and right arm options in terms of spin bowling. Dwayne Bravo and Pollard are good medium pacers whose slower balls and other variations can produce wickets against the run of play.

Weakness

The bowling is containment bowling lineup and suited only if West Indies are defending large totals. Suleiman Benn has not played too much of one day cricket and Nikita Miller also seems short of experience. Bravo and Pollard are not stump to stump bowler’s a-la Chris Harris or Gavin Larsen; they rely on variation for wickets. These experimentations for variation can make them inconsistent in terms of line and lengths.

TACTICS:

Expected to bat first and get Chris Gayle going hard at the top, Sarwan and Chanderpaul to build the innings and then Pollard and Bravo to get 8 to 12 per over in the last 10. Gayle’s tactics of batting first may change only if they play at a venue where dew will become a factor.

KEY PLAYER:  Apart from all the batting stars the key player for West Indies is Kemar Roach. Roach has the ability to swing the new and old ball and his natural full length will suite the flat wickets. Roach might be a real surprise weapon if he gets it right in the world cup.

NEW ZEALAND

New Zealand always prepares well for big tournaments and their results reflect this professional approach. Leading up to world cup they have played series in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh over the past six months to acclimatise. Unfortunately, they were beaten comprehensively in all of them. This goes to show that they just don’t have players to execute the plans this time around.

BATTING

Strength

Ross Taylor is really the only world class batsman in the lineup. When he gets going, he is as good as the best of them and is vital for providing the impetus at the top of the order. Taylor’s ability settles the top order and also allows the stroke makers to bat around him. McCullum, Oram and Vettori add plenty of depth, especially if there is no pivotal figure at the top. McCullum is one of the cleanest hitters of cricket ball; his ability to play the scoops the reverse sweeps; allow him to dominate in any stage of the game.

Weakness

Apart from Ross Taylor, the top order is lacking a world class batsman. New Zealand scorecards often show too many 30s and 40s rather than couple of large scores. To win high scoring matches, it is essential the 30s and 40s are converted into scores beyond 80s or 100s, something definitely lacking in New Zealand team.  There is always the feeling the batting skills from Number 4 number to 8 remains the same which makes them vulnerable, if the top order is lost early.

BOWLING :

Strength:

New Zealand similar to the West Indies, have variety in their attack, in the form of spinners and medium pacers. Daniel Vettori with impeccable accuracy and subtle changes of pace & flight can trouble most team. Along with Styris and McCullum, New Zealand attack has the ability to strangle oppositions in the middle overs.  

Weakness:

Every team has a world class or a spearhead fast bowler, something that NZ lacks.  In the past world cup campaigns, there has always been a spearhead like Shane Bond or Geoff Allot. The likes of Mills, Southee, and Oram are too predictable on placid wickets and lack wicket taking ability. This means that additional responsibility or burden of the attack falls on Dan Vettori. This has always allowed other teams to play Vettori watchfully, while the other bowling is treated with contempt.

TACTICS

In the past, NZ have preferred to bowl first and exploit the early conditions. However, in the sub-continent especially with their fast bowling depleted expect them to apply the bat first strategy. If the top order shows early signs of form, expect Brendon McCullum to be used as floater in the batting order. If NZ are to be successful; wickets needs to be preserved at the start; so the likes of Vettori, McCullum and Oram can cut loose at the end.  Look out for Nathan McCullum to open the bowling if the conditions are favourable.

KEY PLAYER: Jesse Ryder is one man who has brute power, plays spin well and apart from Ross Taylor is skilled enough to build an innings. Recent success in India will do his confidence the world of good.

ENGLAND:

The last time England had a successful world cup was way back in 1992. After the recent successful ashes campaign, the team has been on a high, but with injury concerns, their depth will be severely tested. About one month back many people were marking down England as one of the semi-finalists but lots has changed since then.

BATTING  

Strength

Any batting line up with Kevin Pietersen in the top order is formidable. Kevin Pietersen’s physical presence can intimated any bowler even before a bowl has been bowled, add to it his sublime skills against spin and fast bowling, make him the core of England’s batting. The support cast of Strauss, Bell and Trott, provide the batting a technically solid look. Solidarity of Jonathon Trott at number 3, allows the likes of Strauss, Pietersen and Bell to bat with extra freedom. Bresnan, Broad and Swan also give England much needed depth in their batting.

Weakness

The batting styles of players like Strauss, Trott and Bell are better suited to test cricket than ODI cricket. All have great technique but don’t have robust shots or deft touches that are needed on the sub-continent wickets. English batsmen seem to be inapt to rotate strikes during the middle overs against quality spin bowling.  Eoin Morgan presence will surely be missed in the middle order.  Reliance on KP to score large proportions of the runs could well prove to be the achilles heel.

BOWLING:

Strength

England bowlers are suited to exploit any swing that could be on offer, particularly under lights. Bowlers like Anderson, Broad and Bresnan are capable of picking up early wickets and putting the opposition under pressure when the conditions are likeable. The coming of age of Graeme Swann, definitely gives England spinning option, which has been missing in the past. Swann’s attacking and probing lines can make indents against even the most formidable batting line up.

Weakness

The core of English bowling is inexperienced when it comes to bowling on the sub-continent.  Broad and Bresnan are quality bowlers in favourable conditions, but on unresponsive wickets they lack the skills to prevent the flow of runs.   The bowling also seems over attacking and does not have containment bowler who can hold down an end. All these facts are proven with England’s poor record in India, where they have struggled to stop the scoring blitz.

TACTICS: Will be praying to win the toss and bat first at every opportunity, allowing their bowlers to bowl in the cooler conditions in evening.  Ian Bell should be promoted to open the batting, he is exceptional player of fast bowling and is technically sound. Matt Prior struggled last time he opened in India and should be batted in lower order.

Key Player: KP may have attitude or ego but he is hell of cricketer, who has the ability to intimidate any bowlers. KP can use his feet to put the bowlers off their length and use his wrists to hit a balls pitching six inches outside off stump through leg stump. KP is a big series player and if he finishes the leading scorer in the tournament expect England to make the semis, or go even further.

PAKISTAN

Pakistan is the sleeping giants in this world cup, marked by off-field controversies and on-field brilliance make them the most unpredictable. Success in the tournament may come down to attitude, discipline and willingness to battle   tough periods. If all the boxes above are ticked, the trophy could well be within their grasp.

Batting

Strength

Pakistan’s finishing power is second to none in this world cup. If a solid platform has been set by the top order, Afridi and Razzaq are capable of scoring 100 runs in last ten overs on each occasion. War horses such as Mishab and Younis at 4^th and 5^th are essential for the platform need by Afridi and Razzaq. Mishbah is a master in the middle over’s, he has the shots against spinners and fast bowlers on these wickets. In Younis Khan, Pakistan have a middle order batsman who is capable of working the balls into gaps and picking up six runs an over without taking any risks.

Weakness:  Pakistan top order remains shy of experience with Shezad and Hafeez. Kamran Akmal at number 3 could well be exposed if there are early wickets. If the top 3 fail, the likes of Mishbah and Younis may have additional pressure on more occasions than expected. Pakistan batting always seems like one game away from imploding, poor shot selection can take place and the wheels can come off very easily.

Bowling

Strength

Pakistan bowling stocks will allow them them to select the bowlers according to wickets. With Razzaq opening the bowling in recent times, this has allowed Umar Gul and Riaz to bowl 1^stand 2nd respectively, providing solid backup attack. Each of the bowlers is capable of reverse swinging the ball and could well prove difficult to bat against the likes of Gul from 25^th to 34^th overs. In the spin department Sajeed Ajmal can fox any batsman with his doosra and has the ability to bowl at the death and in the batting power plays. Afridi allows the wrist spin variety and part timer Hafeez can do a decent job in the middle overs. Add to this the speed of Shoaib and Pakistan has a formidable attack.

Weakness:

Pakistan’s bowling can be ill-disciplined at times particularly if under pressure. Bowlers can find it hard to execute specific plans and extras can feature dominantly on a scorecard. Additionally, Pakistan lack a genuine swing bowler to take advantage of the first few over’s when the white ball can swing under lights.  Pakistan will surely miss the services of Asif & Aamir in their abilities to swing the ball at start of the innings.

TACTIC:  Conserve wickets at the start and rely on Afridi and Razzaq to go blitz in the final 10 overs. With reserve swing expected on the dry pitches, expect Umar Gul to bowl majority of his overs after the halfway stage.

Key Player: Misbah is the mould of Minadad or Inzaman when it comes to calmness and guiding an ODI innings. Misbah can bat according to any situation and his experience will make him the vital cog every time Pakistan bat in this world cup.

AUSTRALIA

Defending champions and the number one ranked team in ODI. Australia will prepare to defend their world cup having lost some of the elite players since their last campaign.  Australia will be taking their weakest line up for the last 3 world cups, but what they lack in talent is always made up professional attitude. Success could well depend on the capabilities of senior players to carry the extra burden left by the former elite players.

Batting

Strength:

Shane Watson is in career best form and developed great mental strength to produce the goods in big matches. Although he has been in poor form, Michael Clarke’s ability to play spin bowling well in the middle order will prove vital. Australia’s disciplined batting will is also be one of its strengths; the batsmen may not be as talented as in the past but can still execute plans to ensure that the correct approach is followed. All of their batsmen have genuine strength to clear boundaries at will.

Weakness:

Michael Hussey ruled out of the world cup, Australia’s lower order batting does not have an experience finisher. Also the form of Michael Clarke and the injury concerns for Ricky Ponting puts extreme pressure on players like Cameron White and Dave Hussey.  Doubts still remain on the batsmen ability to play high quality spin bowling on the turning wickets of the sub-continent. The intimidation of Gilchrist, Hayden and Symonds will definitely be missed.

Bowling

Strength:

All the quick bowlers are genuine fast, capable of reaching speeds of 145Km/h constantly. Along with the pace each of them are attacking with mindset to take wickets.  The likes of Bollinger, Lee, Johnson and Tait can trouble batsmen with full length and also use the short ball as a surprise element to keep the batsmen on their toes. Teams with long tail may well be gobbled up by the pace of Australia quicks.  It is also imperative this attacking bowling should be backed up by attacking fielding.

Weakness:

While other teams have come to India with 2 or 3 spinners, Australia squad contain only 1 full time spinner. This may prove decisive in the instance where the fast bowlers are ineffective and additional spinning option will be required.  Like all attacking bowlers, wickets can come at a cost. Johnson and Tait can prove erratic at times and concede large amounts of extras on a given day.   

TACTICS: Ever since the Simpson and Border era Australia’s mantra has always been to bat first, put the runs on the board and strangle the opposition. Regardless of conditions, expect the team to play with 3 quick’s and John Hastings with Smith and Dave Hussey to bowl spinners.  

KEY MAN: Regardless of his poor form and the rise of Watson, the Australian captain still remains Australia’s best batsman. Ricky Ponting needs to have a big world cup, if Australia is to qualify to the semi-final stage.

SRI LANKA

World Cup finalists four years ago, the dual hosts will fancy their chances to go one better this time around.  Importantly the core group of players remain from the World Cup in 2007, and with emerging youngsters coming along the team composition is good blend of youth and experience. Support of young talents such as Matthews, Mendis and Perrera could well decide Sri Lanka’s faith in the world cup.

Batting

Strength:

Sri Lanka probably contains the most complete no 3 and no 4 in the entire tournament. Jayawardene and Sangakarra are extremely flexible cricketers, in way they go about their innings. If needed both can start watchfully to build an innings or in contrast can counter-attack from the start.  The security of Sangakarra and Jayawardena allows the openers to bat freely at the start.  The addition of Samerawerra provides extra assurance in middle order in scenario if  incase of early downfall of the big two. Angelo Matthews has shown that he can be a good finisher and has the muscle to match it with the best.

Weakness:

Sri Lanka batting seems extremely top heavy, and doubts hover over the batting prowess of the lower order. Likes of Perrera and Kulusekra will be batting one position higher than their preferred positions, exposing them in situations in which solid contributions may be required.  Dilemma facing the Sri Lanka is that if they play 7 batsmen it leaves them a bowler short.  

Bowling

Strength

Sri Lanka has been blessed with bowlers who suite the home conditions. Kulusekra and Malinga complement each other nicely, Malinga is an outswing bowler while former is an inswinger. First change bowler Perrera is a genuine wicket taker and was proved this by becoming the leading wicket taker for Sri Lanka last year. Sri Lanka then can call on the master in Murali and mystery in Mendis to bamboozle the batsmen in the middle overs.  Undoubtedly the death overs from Malinga, remains the greatest strength of Sri Lanka.  

Weakness:

Like all the attacking bowlers in the tournament, Malinga is vulnerable to leaking runs especially with his slingy action angling the ball into the pads.  Murali may have the experience, but last couple of years he has definitely lost the sting. If Murali gets scored off easily, that may just put extra pressure on backup spinners in Herath and Mendis. If Sri Lanka decide to play 7 batsman the burden of bowling could have an effect on Angelo Matthews.

TACTIC:  Sri Lanka will look to bat first on most occasions, so their spinners can come into the game in the later half. Expect Dilshan and Tharanga to weild their axes to get off to a flying start. In terms of bowling, expect Malinga to have 3 bursts – 3 at start 3 close to the 30^th over and then 4 or even 5 at the end. Expect Mendis to play against the minor teams as he still remains a mystery unsolved for some teams.

Key Player:  Angelo Matthews is young man who has shown he has a calm head in tense situations. Matthew’s ability to bat with tail and the capability of finishing innings, could well determine if Sri Lanka can qualify for the final.

SOUTH AFRICA:

South Africa undoubtedly has been the unluckiest team in the World Cup’s so far. Ludicrous equation, mindless run out and misinterpretation of a basic equation have halted the Proteas progress, to claim the ultimate prize in the past.   Fortunes of South Africa could well depend on the players abilities to overcome each of the forgetful instances, and conquer the fear factor mentally.  If world is a fair place, it’s about time South Africa deserve a bit of luck to go along with their skills to lift the world cup.

Batting

Strength:  

It’s one thing to have great players in the team, but in world cup it’s essential to have form players.  In Amla, Kallis and AB Devillers South Africa definitely have players at peak of their powers. Amla’s batting style suits the sub continent conditions; his back foot punches and wristy flicks are a formula for substantial runs.  Kallis is most complete batsman in the team and his appetite for runs will make him the key wicket for opposition. Add the physical presence of Smith and sublime skills of Dumminy, no wonder South Africa have been pencilled in as finalists already.

Weakness:

Prominent lower order batting of the past will definitely be missed this time around.  Not only is the tale stretched, the likes of Du Plees, Ingram and Petersen are inexperienced in the conditions. The exclusion of Albie Morkel may well haunt South African selection panel.

Bowling

Strength:  

They have the best bowler in the world in Dale Steyn, who has pace and swing to unsettle any top order. Steyn is quick through the air and his style of bowling will not be impacted by the placid wickets. Morne Morkel complements Steyn with his height and ability to get steep bounce with his pace. Although the conditions won’t assist, the steep bounce can induce false shots from even the elite players. Tsotobe adds another dimension as a left arm bowler, while Botha and Petersen provide adequate spinning options.

Weakness:

Aside Morkel and Steyn, the backup bowling attack seems to lacking the penetration to trouble the opposition. Tsotsobe does not have the pace to generate steep bounce like Morkel making him less effective on placid wickets. Parnell can be inconsistent while Kallis is returning from side strain.  Opposition teams will look to play out Steyn & Morkel taking the attack to the rest.

TACTICS: South Africa will look to Kallis and Amla to consolidate and bat through the 50 overs. This will allow Smith and DeVillers to play without restraint. Proteas will look to bat first and give opportunity to Steyn and Morkel under lights.

Key Man: Graeme Smith has underperformed over the past 12 months in one day arena and one gets the feeling he is due for some runs. Along with Kallis he is mentally the strongest cricketer in the line up.  Over the years, Smith has proven his mental strength by performing in big matches.  Having talked up the South African chances, expect Smith to let his batting do the talking in the later stages.

INDIA:

Under achievers four years ago, India will be eager to overcome the disappointment in their home court. Like the Spanish in soccer world cup, anything short of winning the title will be viewed as a failure. On past occasions, this immense pressure has affected even the simplest of minds, leading to poor performances in the crucial matches. If the players can overcome the expectations mentally, the batting alone is strong enough to ensure India become the first team to win world cup at home.

Batting

Strength:

On paper this batting line up is amongst the finest to have represented any nation.  Experience of Tendulkar and the brutality of Sehwag, make them most dangerous opening partnership. Both are capable of taking the pressure of each other by hitting flurry of boundaries at any given time.  Sehwag sizzling stroke play and Sachin shot selection will allow India to get off to rapid starts. Gambhir and Kohli are equally brilliant at manoeuvring the ball against the spin and pace.  Yuvraj and Dhoni are middle order specialists with ability to accelerate an innings in boundaries and quick running between wickets. Dhoni is extremely calm and calculated, knowing when to attack and when to defend. Add Yusuf Pathan to this artillery and India will bank on chasing or setting large targets on each occasion.

Weakness:

The form of Yuvraj and Dhoni is definitely a concern leading up to the tournament. lf the form slump continues for both players, it will add extra pressure on Yusuf pathan.  Given the poor form of Yuvraj, it is imperative Kohli is added to secure the op order.

Bowling

Strength:

Most important aspect of bowling is experience, Zaheer along with Nehra have plenty in these conditions. Zaheer is the cleverest bowlers around in Indian conditions; he can sum up situation quicker than most bowlers and has ability to bowl good yorkers. Harbhajan’s has resurrected his bowling in past two months, his ability to deceive batsman in the air and off the pitch making him dangerous customer.  Also with the pitches likely to be conducive to spin, the variety

Weakness:

Similar to South Africa, the support for Zaheer and Harbhajan seems to be missing. The inconsistency of bowlers remains a concern, especially the fast bowlers who have the tendency to bowl one boundary ball an over.  The risk of relying on part time spinners may prove decisive, especially if the wickets are extremely placid.

TACTICS:  One gets the feeling if there is any dew around then India will decide to bowl first. Ideally India’s best chances will depend upon the pitches to be slow, allowing their part timers to come into the game. Expect Yuvraj or Dhoni to bat in top 4 in the preliminary games against low ranked opposition to get a necessary practice.

Key Man: Yuvraj Singh has been in international cricket for 10 years, and this world cup is his chance to fulfil his dream. Yuvraj’s brut strength and delightful timing allow him to dictate the bowling. He has shown in the past to play crucial innings and to guide the team to famous victories. India will become overwhelming favourites if Yuvraj can find his touch during the tournament.