shot-button
Subscription Subscription
Home > Sports News > Cricket News > Article > Indians on a decline

Indians on a decline

Updated on: 19 December,2012 08:17 AM IST  | 
A Correspondent |

Sir Ian Botham puts Dhoni's 'great' team in perspective; Nasser Hussain, David Lloyd zoom in on Virender Sehwag

Indians on a decline

English cricket legend Sir Ian Botham believes Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s men were a bit complacent after they won the opening Test at Ahmedabad. “There was a little bit of complacency in India after the first Test; they expected to win the series and didn’t think England could play spin,” said Botham on Sky Sports.u00a0


India lost the series 1-2 in Nagpur on Monday.



In the red: Virender Sehwag


Botham, who made two Test tours to India (in 1979-80 under Mike Brearley and 1981-82 under Keith Fketcher) called for an infusion of youth. “We’ve got to remember this is a great India side but it’s in decline. Age catches up with all of us; your time comes, your times goes and you move on and the new brigade comes in. That’s where India have got to start thinking now; they need a new breed to put some energy back into their side,” he opined.

Nasser Hussain, who leg England in the 2001-02 series didn’t hold back the tough talk on Sky: “Their (India’s) spinners were out-bowled by England's spinners and for Swann and Panesar to out-bowl Ashwin and Ojha says a lot.

“It’s not really about pitches, old players or young players, now. It’s just England are a better side. India need to have a look at themselves.”

Hussain reckoned that Virender Sehwag should be out of the team. He said: “They’ll have batsmen, they’ve always had batsmen, and it’s time to start introducing them like they’ve done with Pujara. But I think there has to be one big call as a statement after this series - and for me that would be Sehwag, if Tendulkar stays on. He’s been a brilliant player but he has to go if they’re trying to take this team in a new direction.”

David Lloyd, the popular commentator agreed with Hussain: “Sehwag doesn’t look right. He’s 34 years of age and looks older than that; he’s totally out of condition. Rahane is an excellent player, Murali is well talked about as a younger, sparky player and Yadav would help the pace attack.”u00a0

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!


Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK