India Steamroll SA, As Kiwis Continue To Lose Flight
Kohli turns ‘49’
The hard hitting South Africans who were ravaging oppositions with their fearless batting were dealt a drubbing and mauled by an invincible looking Indian Team, so reminiscent of the all conquering West Indian outfits of the 70s and 80s. The Eden Garden bore witness to Virat Kohli’s 49th ODI century ( equalling Sachin’s record ) and some exceptionally incisive bowling by the Indian Unit.
A One Sided Affair
The Proteas having already qualified for the Semis were expected to put up a strong show against the Indians and an engaging affair was expected. However what turned out was a hopelessly one sided affair. The flamboyant batting of the South Africans which has been the highlight of the World Cup so far, was turned into an insipid submission by an amazing Indian attack.
An All Conquering Indian Unit
The Indian Bowling attack has been bolstered by the inclusion of Mohd Shami, would be an understatement. The attack looks complete and extremely sharp. The consistency of all the bowlers is unreal. They hardly miss the length and are always probing the stumps. It appears as if a highly in sync orchestrated program is unfolding in front of the eyes. Without doubt, this is a testament to India’s preparation for the World Cup, the hard yards put in and of course an extremely focused coaching staff. Fair to say there is an unbridgeable, yawning gap between India’s and rest of the bowling attacks. India is on a roll with no real challenge on the horizon. Keeping fingers crossed I have to say that India are clear favourites to be crowned Champions in 2023.
The Proteas Go Down Without a Fight
South Africa’s batting too lacked application. Their defence was loose, Miller, Markram and Klassen played poor shots and gave up way to early and easily. Temba Bavuma at the top of the order is a huge problem for the Proteas. With their timid display they themselves have battered their confidence and I hope they are not scathed badly to jeopardise their campaign in the World Cup.
Kiwis On A Losing Trail
The Kiwis are on a losing trail, with their 4th consecutive loss, after recording 4 consecutive wins. They have let their guard down it seems, and though they have been unfortunately stricken with injuries, their cricket has not been good enough. At Bangalore their batting came together big time and recorded an unassailable 401 runs against a pathetic Pak bowling attack. They just needed some disciplined bowling, a wicket or two upfront and it was a done deal.
Fakhar Zaman and Rain Shower Misery on The Black Caps
The Kiwis unfortunately ran into Fakhar Zaman, who belted them with disdain and snatched away the initiative. The rest of the misery was completed by the rains and Pak emerged winners by 21 runs by the DLS method. It would be fair to say that the New Zealand Bowling is being hammered by all and sundry and barring Mitch Santner, the rest are struggling. The Kiwis have to get their best game going against SL. A win can get them into the semis. For Pakistan they have to win big against England and hope for New Zealand and Afghanistan to lose their matches going forward.
Australia Win 5 On the Bounce
England lost another match of the World Cup and were well and truly beaten by a resurgent Australian Team in Ahmedabad. The Australians now have won 5 games on the bounce and are looking threatening. Their qualification is almost certain though they are facing Afghanistan tomorrow. A win for either of the teams will bolster chances of qualification. Watch out for Adam Zampa.
World Cup in Its Business End
The World Cup is entering an interesting phase with the 3rd and 4th spots in the Semi-Final line up , up for grabs. Australia, New Zealand, Afghanistan and Pakistan are in the fray. Let’s see who makes it.
And as I write, the news coming from Sri Lanka is that their Cricket Board has been sacked after their monumental loss to India.
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