WC 2011- A world cup for contenders

Since 1999, every world cup has been Australia’s to defend. And whether there is a challenger at all. So, if there was a whiff of a doubt, the demolition of India and Sri Lanka in 2003 and 2007 finals, settled the issue.

But, those days are over. We are getting ready for a new world order, at least, for cricket.

Oz, are languishing. There are new leaders. India, South Africa, England. Sri Lanka?

I am possibly starting a new series of articles for the World Cup previews.

Let’s analyse the chances. Oz, the champions for over a decade, are waning, are waning fast. However, the decline of their test team should not be related to their one day team. For the shorter format, the Steven Smiths may win you matches. And Oz, still have some big names playing. But, I believe, it will be a huge surprise for me, if Oz lift the world cup. They simply have too many ghosts to fight. Too much of inexperience for the sub-continent. Still, Oz being Oz, they are one of the contenders, the difference is, this time, the champion will be just a contender. The Cup is open.

Then, we come to India. They are playing at home. A thin bowling attack, a strong batting order, and unusually, a sharp fielding side. There has been a continuous, persistent change in the way India plays their cricket, which got visible in 2001 Kolkata Test. Since then, the big picture of Indian Cricket Team has always been improving. And once you reflect over last series against South Africa, the CHANGE is finally getting PROMINENT, MORE AND MORE.

So, do India have a big chance? When most of things do look rosy, the bowling is a big worry. I give you an example for it. Dhoni says India lost the recent series against South Africa due to misfiring batting. I would say, South Africa won, due to a far, far superior bowling attack. They got India out, while India could not get them.

Indian bowling is Jugad. They hold on to their own part, when pushed to the wall. But their is no killer instinct. Actually, there is no soul in it. It’s a zombied spirit, only interested in self preservation, and nothing else. Since 2003 World Cup Final, to as recently as on fourth day of 3rd Test vs SA, to last two one dayers, all Indian bowling needed to do, is not to self destruct, but they could not help it.

I do not think, any side ( read India) is going to win WC’11, by batting only. Bowlers must stand up and get counted.

More to continue..