The tri-series prepared India really well for the World Cup. It looks such a different team now, silencing their critics and enthralling their supporters. With two back-to-back convincing victories, India have demonstrated they are on the right track to defend the title.
The win against South Africa was created with a collective effort. The batsmen showed the way and the bowlers, backed by some outstanding all-round fielding, ensured South Africa suffered an embarrassing defeat. I say embarrassing because the margin was huge for a team aspiring to win the Cup. It must have been a thrilling experience for the Indian supporters in the packed house at the MCG.
Shikhar Dhawan obviously was the difference between the teams. He was a bit slow to start with but picked up enough pace to come up with a sterling knock. The century confirmed his form and must have lifted the confidence of the team for the forthcoming matches. Shikhar planned his innings very well, hanging around initially and then taking the bowlers by the scruff.
The partnership between Shikhar and Virat Kohli was crucial. Both looked in great nick but the big innings that Shikhar played was the biggest gain from this match. He has a big match temperament and I would like to see Shikhar carry the advantage to give his best during the knockout stage. Virat should have scored more but then he got out to a good ball.
The performance by Ajinkya Rahane was one of the finest that I have seen. He outclassed everyone by his gem of an innings. He walked out with lot of responsibility because he had been sent up with a specific task and he accomplished his job with a scintillating knock. The fact that Ajinkya responded with an authoritative innings is an indication of the team’s preparation.
The partnership between Shikhar and Ajinkya was the turning point. It broke the back of the South African attack where only leg-spinner Imran Tahir earned respect. The others bowled all over the place and cracked under pressure.
India’s bowling had caused some concern before the tournament but I must say it is time to revise that opinion. Mohammad Shami is looking a reliable bowler and Mohit Sharma has appeared equally good. Hats off to the bowlers for their show!
It must have been encouraging for Mahendra Singh Dhoni to see the spinners come good. True, the pressure was created by the fast bowlers but Ravindra Jadeja and R. Ashwin stuck to a nagging line. I expect more from Ashwin and this match should do a world of good to his confidence. The two brilliant run outs proved India’s improved fielding indeed. Credit to Dhoni. He did not ease the pressure and attacked right through as he is known to.
Pre-match favourites South Africa were outclassed in all departments. This loss may shake their self-belief but I would not like to write off the team. They are bound to learn from this defeat. India can take a lot of positives from the win with contributions coming from everyone. It augurs well for Dhoni’s men.