By Kris Srikkanth
It would be a shame if the toss is going to decide the outcome of the India-Australia semifinal. The hard fact is that the team batting first would go in with a tremendous advantage, and with quality spin at their disposal, India would be hoping to defend at the SCG. We have seen the best of sides falter during a stiff chase. If India manage a par score, then the match will be worthwhile throughout. At the same time, if India is to chase they will have their task cut out against an Aussie attack that has surely found its bearings.
To me, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma hold the key. If India can get to the 35th over with a good number of wickets in hand, then the possibilities become endless. They have done that well so far and should back themselves to do well again. Australia can be batted out of the contest much in the manner India managed to do so against Pakistan and South Africa.
India has done everything right with the ball and in the field. Mohammed Shami can again be the differentiating factor if he can keep the ball close to the body of the batsmen and not allow them to free their arms for the cut and pull. David Warner and Aaron Finch don’t like to be kept quiet, and if the new ball bowlers can exert some pressure, they could cave in. The opening spell is crucial, and Ashwin and Jadeja also have their task cut out in the middle overs. India have to bring their A game to the park and also hope for the spin of the coin to go their way. It promises to be a raucous entertainer in the best cricket theatre in the world.