By Venkatesh Prasad
The Indian camp must be a really happy place to be in, after all they are sitting pretty with four wins from four games and a place in the quarterfinals. The two remaining league games cannot, however, be taken for granted even if they are against lesser fancied sides.
Having been part of many team managements, I am quite sure that the Indian think tank would have got together and addressed the issue of possible complacence. My message would have been simple – go out there and be as professional as possible in your approach. Don’t play the opponent, don’t play the situation either but go and ensure you give your best.
There is a tendency at times when you play inexperienced sides such as Ireland to play at their level as against keeping your levels intact. You may not be required to play out of your skins but the trick is not be lulled into a fall in standards. Ireland is quite capable of seizing the opportunity if one is provided.
The way the game against the West Indies went, the other sides would have picked some points on how to put the Indians under pressure. Such vulnerability shouldn’t be shown at any stage, more so given that the business end of the tournament is almost upon us.
What must also be kept in mind is that winning is a good habit, which is why the team management must repeatedly stress the importance of a professional approach to Tuesday’s game against Ireland.
Hamilton normally lays out a great track to bat on and the Indian batsmen must take due advantage. It’s time for Rohit Sharma to show some consistency. He should take time to settle down, spend some time in the middle and aim for big runs against his name for he is expected to play a big part in the Indian team’s batting plans.
Also, without taking away from the aim to win, it perhaps is time to get some of the players on the bench onto the field.
But whatever you do, don’t rest Ashwin, unless he has a niggle or something. For he’s in the midst of some fine performances. For now, let’s see how Ireland deal with him.