First up, India kicked off their campaign against New Zealand, but fell, losing by 58 runs. But not to worry, every champion has their off days, right? It’s all part of the grand plan to build suspense for the audience.

Then came the clash with arch-rivals Pakistan. The stage was set for an epic showdown. India needed to chase down a modest total of 105. One would expect fireworks, a spectacular run-chase filled with the sounds of bat hitting ball. Instead, they scurried home in 18.5 overs, with a performance that seemed like watching a slow-moving train wreck.