As their abysmal run in global events continues, Indian cricket needs to have a long look at itself and then take some tough decisions
As their abysmal run in global events continues, Indian cricket needs to have a long look at itself and then take some tough decisions
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A disappointed Vinay Kumar looks on as Chamara Kapugedera powers Sri Lanka home with a 16-ball, unbeaten 37 during the ICC World Twenty20 Super Eight match at the Beausejour Cricket Ground in Gros Islet, St Lucia yesterday. PIC/AFP |
Chamara Kapugedera produced a mighty blow off the final ball of a nail-biting contest to defy the odds and thwart India's belated attempt to prolong their tournament.
Top chase
No side had chased down a target in excess of 160 in the tournament until Kapugedera sent the white ball flying over cover and way over the boundary. The match became a tale of the last five overs; India scored only 37 while Sri Lanka sprinted to the line with 60 in the same period.
Suresh Raina enjoyed his return to Beausejour and celebrated with a half-century. On the ground where he scored a brilliant century against the South African attack, the elegant left-hander looked comfortable on the slower, lower bouncing pitch. Early on, he received a bouncer from the lively Lasith Malinga and the delivery took an age to reach the batsman after pitching.
Raina formed a solid liaison with fellow left-hander Gautam Gambhir and needing to win by a good margin they maintained a highly acceptable run rate of nine an over. Trying to win by a wide margin is often a difficult high wire act to achieve; many a team has faltered badly in trying to post a large total. However, the two lefties ensured this wouldn't happen by scoring quickly and keeping their wickets in tact.
Poor finish
This partnership ensured that India achieved their first aim; setting a target in excess of 160 in this tournament has been a guaranteed recipe for success. However, the Sri Lankans did well to drag the Indian total back from what looked likely to be at least a 180 total.
The Indians made a great start with the ball, taking a wicket in each of the first two overs but despite these twin successes it didn't perk up the fielding. The ground work was sloppy with a few fumbles and runs conceded, mirroring the running between wickets early in the innings when a lethargic Gambhir cost his side runs that would turn out to be critical in their attempt to advance.