MOHALI CONQUEST AND THEREAFTER..

The OZ humbled by 320 runs. What would be tormenting Ponting, apart from the huge margin, is that fact that they conceded session after session to Dhoni’s Indians through out the five days. It was surprising that Indians could outplay the OZ even in fielding. No wonder, Ponting conceded that Indians outplayed OZ in all departments. Aussies mighty batting line-up was punctured twice and it’s bleeding. Aussies bowlers were hammered to submission and were made to look lifeless. I am sure the fear has set in among OZ.

Aussies strange strategy probably hurried them towards this pitiable situation. The bowlers’ and fielders’ defensive plot can be understood as Mcgrath and Warne’s retirement has dented their bowling sting. What was surprising is the defensive strategy by batsmen as well. The OZ mostly scored at sub 3 runs per over through two tests which is quite less than their winning strategy for so long; more than 300 runs in a day. One reason could be that the aggression of OZ batsmen comes from bowlers’ performance and that Ponting and his batsmen were waiting for their bowlers to fire. But, is it time for OZ batsmen to reciprocate their bowlers with batting prowess and aggression? Can OZ bowlers be resuscitated that easily? The answer to this series lies here!

Indians, though, are sitting pretty! .. or are they? Amit Mishra’s fifer in first innings was the difference between win and draw…or we can even say win and loss! Now with Kumble fit, the captain is under pressure. Who should make way for Kumble? If Mishra is dropped and India loses Delhi test, then the captain would be a laughing stock! A captain whose team leads 1-0, and with fear set in opposition, is still under pressure! It can happen only to Indian team! So what’s that captain is going to dish out? If he is going to play five bowlers, then it should be a strategy rather than a means to alleviate pressure temporarily! And if he is going to drop Mishra, then his other bowlers have to prove they are adequate!