The Twenty20 world cup is all set to start with a bang from the 16th of March onwards. The entire global cricket contingent is leaving no stone unturned in their preparations for the same. The Indian cricket team is no different. However, things have changed quite radically in comparison to the past scenario. India was earlier number 1 in all formats of the game. However, they have slipped from the top spot on the back of several losses on away tours. Heavy losses to England, Australia and New Zealand over the past couple of years have put the team on the back foot. India’s once unbeatable team is now being scrutinized for shortcomings and other flaws.
Will India manage to pull off a repeat of 2007? This is something that looks dicey from the very start. In 2007, MS Dhoni’s team managed to pull off a five run victory over Pakistan. They haven’t done very well in the ICC Twenty20 world cup since. The team did win the World Cup in the year 2011 though. However, the team is now a mere shadow of its former confident self. There is clearly something that the skipper is not getting right these days. Team selection has been flawed and youngsters are only warming the bench. However, the Indian team for the World Cup looks strong indeed.
A lot will depend on the bowling line-up at this tournament. The bowlers will have to work in tandem in order to outsmart the best batsmen from rival teams. Ishant Sharma, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and the fabulously consistent Shami Ahmed can form a lethal strike force if they are used in the right manner. Ishant has recently struck form and Shami has always been lethally effective as a wicket taker. Bhuvneshwar has not been very consistent but can be a good foil to the other two strike bowlers. R Ashwin has to deliver with the ball and not just let his bat do the talking. Harbhajan Singh and Amit Mishra are waiting in the wings and Mishra would be an ideal bet as an attacking leg spinner. Ravindra Jadeja is a solid player who gives just the right dose of balance to the team with his solid batting and effective bowling. He has in fact been one of the best bowlers for India on their tours abroad.
Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan should be able to give consistent starts if India are to think of winning the Twenty20 world cup. Virat Kohli has been the only one with a consistent track record and is easily the best batsman in the team at the moment. MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina and either Yuvraj Singh/Ajinkya Rahane must fire on all cylinders. The skipper himself has to be a lot more consistent. Rooting for India at the T20 world cup? Celebrate with the best team jerseys, autographed gear, sporting equipment and other team merchandise. This is one of the biggest carnivals witnessed by the entire cricket fraternity. India has strong chances but must play to its strengths if it has to win the tournament!
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