These days every three out of four Indians will be busy predicting the outcome of the impending quarter clash for the cricket world cup. Thankfully this time there are no upsets and the expected teams made through to the quarters. Still there were some unexpected outcomes confirming ‘the glorious uncertainty’.
The world cup means a lot to every country. So every team put in their best player and everyone gives in all he has got. The only exceptions would be India and Pakistan. The best thing I love about New Zealand is they have very limited resources. But in every game they put in their very best. All the 11 player can bat, bowl and field.
India once said to be the best spin doctors in the world are left clueless this time. No wicket comes from the finger twisters and the worst part is they aren’t very effective in containing too. But then none of the bowlers barring Zaheer looks good. I have hated Nehra and Munaf all my life. It’s surprising to see Indian selectors consider him as a world class palyer. The most suitable quote for him would be ‘’Much ado ado about nothing’.
Speaking about that, it’s quite surprising that India has gone back to the formulae of three good fielders and 7 below standard. There has been no sign of interest to improve all these years. We will have to see this in light with fielding standards in other countries. I think India will have to enforce basic fitness and fielding as selection criteria.
Although batting hasn’t raised an alarm bell, it would be interesting to see how the middle order fare against good teams if the early birds return to their nest early.
Overall , India were supposed to win hands down before the tournament kicked off. But now doubts have set in. Dhoni has been too late in realizing that some of his plans may backfire. Still I would say he has been one of the best captains India ever had.
As for me I would prefer Pakistan going away with the trophy. It would be interesting to see all the shocked, disappointed faces when the arch-rivals win the trophy in Mumbai.
8 comments:
Well, I don't know whether it is good or bad but I am neither watching the matches nor predicting the winners.
Joy always,
Susan
You would prefer Pakistan to win? I thought it is taboo for someone from India to think that way, no? At least it was when I lived in India but that was more than 10 yrs ago. I can however add that I am amazed at how Sachin has kept going. I first watched him in 1994! (together with another talented batsman called Ajey Jadeja who fell by the wayside) and I can't believe that about 17yrs later he is still performing at that level. Outside my country Kenya (who have been the whipping boys of the tournament), i usually have a soft spot for West Indies and Pakistan. After that I don't mind whichever team wins as long as it is not Australia and England!
I dont watch cricket,find it a waste of time and money..but wouldnt ever wish a win to pakistan.
OtienoHongo:
You were in India? Wow, now that deserves a post. Even I used to like Jadeja. We were so young and his smile bowled us over. Now he is a commentator and also does talk shows on Cricket. But Sachin is iconic as many like to refer to him.
Well, those days even I used to be quite crazy after cricket but now I care less. Of course, I still take a peep now and then. old habits, you see.
ossie ossie.. gotta watch out
Secretly I had been shouting for Zimbabwe but now have to switch to either South Africa or New Zealand ... but I won't be cheerign for either of them in the Rugby World Cup.
Pakistan for goodness sake? How unpatriotic!!
I watch cricket only as a game. I dont waste time in following or cheering any team.
Susan, I spent 5 years living in Udaipur in the 90s...
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