If it’s about ticking the right boxes ahead of a major tournament, the Indian team has done that. Things were looking barely half as good when the Asia Cup commenced a few weeks ago. There were grey areas and corridors of uncertainty.
Beginning with a batting line-up containing holes, to questions about the potency of the bowling attack and the wicket-keeping options, concerns were there aplenty. There were persistent problems, like no clarity over the No. 4 slot and no certainty regarding the fitness of the most effective bowler.
It should not be said right now that everything is perfect with the men on whom hang the faith of 1.4 billion, but they are certainly looking better. A lot better than the bunch which lost an ODI series in Bangladesh less than 10 months ago, and suffered because of the non-availability of first-choice players due to fitness issues and other complications.
It is a remarkable change. All the batters are firing and pushing each other for a place in the XI. The most-talked-about No. 4 slot has multiple contenders, wicketkeeper-cum-No. 5 is sorted, with two options both in good nick. The best bowlers in the pace and spin wings are back. There are national debates over which one to drop or pick.
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Not the favourites a few weeks ago while heading into a home World Cup, this is testament to the bench strength India has built over a period. Randomly speaking, this team, at this point in time, has two options for almost every position, except for those who specialise in unconventional spin bowling.
Addressing so many problems is no mean thing. Credit goes to the persons who thought about this and kept believing, when the results were not that obvious. This team has a strong chance of achieving what has been missing for a while.
Familiarity with the conditions is not the only factor. The combinational balance they have found is the standout feature. Not many sides can boast of this.
So, what can we expect? Not to go overboard, to begin with. It is well known that expectations can hamper, sometimes with disastrous consequences. Hopes harboured can fall off in moments if that X-factor does not work. And on a given day, your best bets may not click. There can be injury issues, and other unforeseen distractions.
Followers of Indian cricket are aware of these disappointments. They know that things may not always work, no matter how rich a vein of form your best batter or bowler is in. They could come with up something superlative, and yet the team may not have anything to show for it. We remember 2007, and the 2019 semi-final.
But, before the ball starts rolling, one can fathom how the people about to handle it are placed. Going by that, this bunch looks well-equipped. Expectations will not be sky high because they are not the clear favourites. The pressure on India will be relatively less, if there is such a thing. They have ticked many boxes. Not all. Now, it’s about getting those ticks when it matters.
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