A tale of two series: From awesome to awful

With due respects to Bangladesh, despite coming off a series win, actually a historic whitewash of Pakistan in Pakistan, beating them in India was more amazing because of how we beat not only them but also the weather gods and won - not because of but in spite of the overhead conditions, especially in Kanpur.

Alas, all that seems a distant memory now, after the whitewash we got - yes, we got whitewashed at home - that too, by a team without any Trent Boult or Kane Williamson, and that had just been walloped 2-0 by Sri Lanka in similar, subcontinental conditions. 

Given the contrasting form and fortunes of both the teams, no one would have expected to see what unfolded in the next fifteen days. 

We all know now what happened. Let's take a look at the possible reasons at the why behind the result:

1. Pitch Conditions and Home Advantage

A critical factor in India's loss was the pitch conditions. Traditionally, India has leveraged spin-friendly pitches to its advantage, banking on its world-class spinners to dominate the opposition. However, in this series, the pitch conditions seemed to have backfired.

Impact of Rank Turners

• Early Wear and Tear: Rank turners deteriorate quickly, leading to unpredictable and uneven bounce. While this theoretically benefits spinners, it also brings opposition spinners into play, neutralizing India's traditional strength.
• Opposition Adaptability: New Zealand spinners, such as Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner, adapted brilliantly to these conditions, often outperforming their Indian counterparts and neutralizing the anticipated home advantage India usually enjoys.

Strategic Miscalculations

• Team Selection: India’s selection strategy seemed ill-suited to the conditions. Opting for three spinners on surfaces that offered inconsistent turn meant that the balance of the team was compromised. The reliance on spinners in conditions that didn’t exclusively favor them allowed New Zealand’s seamers to exploit the conditions better.

2. New Zealand's Superior Planning and Execution

New Zealand’s meticulous planning and flawless execution were significant contributors to their series win. From analyzing pitch conditions to understanding player weaknesses, their preparation was thorough and effective.

Tailored Bowling Plans

• Exploiting Indian Weaknesses: New Zealand’s bowlers executed plans that specifically targeted Indian batsmen’s weaknesses. Short-pitched deliveries troubled Indian batsmen, who are traditionally more comfortable against spin.
• Seam and Swing Mastery: On pitches that offered variable bounce, New Zealand's bowlers effectively used seam and swing to their advantage, unsettling the Indian batsmen who struggled to adjust to these variations.

Field Placements and Defensive Strategies

• Aggressive Field Placements: New Zealand captain Tom Latham set aggressive fields that applied constant pressure on the Indian batsmen. The close-in fielders and strategic placements disrupted India's scoring rhythms and induced mistakes.
• Defensive Fortitude: Their defensive strategies, particularly in handling India’s spinners, were exemplary. Batsmen like Rachin Ravindra and Will Young showcased remarkable resilience, playing with soft hands and rotating the strike to negate the spinners' impact.

3. Batting Collapses and Inconsistencies

India’s batting lineup, traditionally a bastion of strength, showed uncharacteristic vulnerabilities throughout the series. Inconsistent performances and batting collapses played a crucial role in the series outcome.

Top Order Failures

• Early Wickets: The Indian top order consistently failed to provide solid starts. Early dismissals of key players like Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill put immense pressure on the middle order.
• Technical Deficiencies: Technical deficiencies, particularly against seam and swing, were exposed. The inability to counter the lateral movement led to frequent dismissals, destabilizing the batting lineup.

Middle Order Struggles

• Inexperienced Middle Order: The middle order, comprising relatively inexperienced players, couldn’t withstand the pressure. The lack of partnerships and frequent wickets in clusters prevented India from posting competitive totals.
• Shot Selection: Poor shot selection at crucial junctures, often precipitated by the pressure of scoreboard stagnation, resulted in quick wickets and furthered the batting woes.

4. Bowling Inefficiencies

While India’s bowling attack is renowned for its potency, several inefficiencies surfaced during the series, undermining their effectiveness.

Inconsistent Spinners

• Lack of Penetration: India's spinners struggled to find consistent penetration on pitches that were expected to favor them. The over-reliance on spin, without adequate support from the pacers, rendered the attack one-dimensional.
• Control and Discipline: Spinners like Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin were not as effective as usual, often lacking the control and discipline required to tie down the New Zealand batsmen.

Pace Bowling Challenges

• Injury Concerns: Injuries to key pacer Mohammad Shami affected the balance and depth of the bowling attack. Siraj, despite his efforts, was largely ineffective throughout the series.
• Execution Under Pressure: In pressure situations, the Indian pacers failed to execute their plans effectively. The inability to deliver under crunch moments allowed New Zealand to build partnerships and accumulate runs steadily.

5. Psychological Factors and Momentum Shifts

Cricket is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Psychological factors and momentum shifts played a significant role in determining the series outcome.

Pressure of Expectations

• Home Series Pressure: Playing at home brings immense pressure and expectations. The Indian team seemed to buckle under this pressure, leading to uncharacteristic mistakes and lapses in concentration.
• Mental Fatigue: Continuous cricket, bio-bubbles, and the mental fatigue of a packed calendar seemed to have taken a toll on the players. This was evident in the fielding lapses and moments of indecision during crucial phases of the game.

Momentum and Confidence

• New Zealand’s Confidence: Winning the first Test gave New Zealand the momentum and confidence to dominate the series. They capitalized on this psychological edge, consistently putting India on the back foot.
• Shifting Momentum: Key moments, such as dropped catches and missed run-out opportunities, allowed New Zealand to shift the momentum in their favor. These critical junctures often dictated the overall flow of the matches.

6. Leadership and Tactical Decisions

Leadership and on-field tactical decisions also played a pivotal role in the series outcome. The contrasting captaincy styles of Rohit Sharma and Tom Latham had a discernible impact on the series dynamics.

Tom Latham’s Captaincy

• Strategic Acumen: Latham’s strategic acumen and calm demeanor were crucial in navigating through challenging phases. His ability to inspire and extract the best from his players was evident throughout the series.
• Field Placements and Bowling Changes: Latham’s proactive field placements and timely bowling changes kept the Indian batsmen under constant pressure, often leading to crucial breakthroughs.

Rohit Sharma’s Captaincy

• Aggressive Approach: While Sharma’s aggressive approach is often a strength, it occasionally backfired in this series. Over-attacking fields and frequent bowling changes sometimes allowed the New Zealand batsmen to settle and capitalize on loose deliveries.
• Pressure Management: Sharma’s management of pressure situations could have been better. Instances of frustration and visible agitation on the field might have impacted the team’s overall composure and performance.

Player Availability and Injuries

• Key Absences: The absence of key players due to injuries significantly weakened the team. Missing experienced campaigners like Mohammad Shami and Hardik Pandya deprived India of crucial match-winners.
• Impact of New Zealand's Full Strength: In contrast, New Zealand fielded a full-strength team with all their key players available, giving them a distinct advantage in terms of experience and skill.

Introspect but move on now!

The series loss to New Zealand was a culmination of several factors that collectively tipped the scales against India. From strategic miscalculations and player performances to psychological pressures and external influences, every aspect contributed to the final result. While it is essential to acknowledge New Zealand’s superior planning and execution, it is equally important for India to introspect and address the identified weaknesses. By doing so, India can regain their dominance in future series and continue to uphold their proud cricketing legacy. Let's look ahead now and put our best foot forward in the Tests that await us Down Under. Jai Ho!

Indian cricket: Going from good to great

The recent Test series victory that India secured over Bangladesh stands as a monumental achievement in Indian cricket history. Not only was it a significant step towards our qualification for the World Test Championship (WTC) final, but it also showcased the sheer dominance and resilience of the Indian team in challenging conditions. Let's delve into why this victory was so crucial and special for India.

From the context of the WTC Finals

When this Test series began, India's path to the WTC final was fraught with complexities and challenges. The arithmetic of our win percentage, combined with the permutations and combinations of other teams' schedules and win possibilities, presented a daunting equation. India needed five wins out of the next ten Tests to secure a spot in the WTC final. This included five Tests at home (two against Bangladesh and three against New Zealand) and five away in Australia.

The pressure was immense, as a single loss could significantly jeopardize our chances. The two inaugural wins against Bangladesh, especially the second Test, which was heavily affected by rain and poor drainage, were crucial in ensuring that we could achieve our target of five wins even before embarking on the challenging tour of Australia. These victories provided a much-needed buffer, allowing the team to approach the remaining Tests with a sense of confidence and reduced pressure.

Why this is special

The manner in which India achieved these victories made them truly special. The second Test against Bangladesh was a remarkable display of strategic brilliance and aggressive cricket. In a game heavily marred by weather disruptions, India manufactured a run-scoring blitz that left the cricketing world in awe. Over the course of just 32 overs, India broke four world records for the fastest-ever 50, 100, 150, and 200 in the history of Test cricket. This was a testament to the team's ability to adapt and dominate even in adverse conditions.

The first Test was a showcase of India's bowling prowess. Led by Jasprit Bumrah, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Mohammed Siraj, the Indian bowling attack dismantled the Bangladeshi batting lineup with precision and skill. Bumrah's lethal pace, Ashwin's cunning variations, Jadeja's all-round brilliance, and Siraj's relentless aggression proved too much for the opposition. In Akash Deep, India found another strong backup, and potentially a contender for a regular spot in certain conditions.

The batting performances were equally commendable. Rohit Sharma's leadership was exceptional, both as a captain and a batsman. His fearless approach and astute field placements set the tone for the team. Alongside him, Yashasvi Jaiswal's incredible batting provided the team with a solid foundation. The first Test also saw a great rescue act from Jadeja and Ashwin, who displayed their batting prowess under pressure.

Breaking records and creating history

The second Test, in particular, was a game for the ages. India's run-scoring blitz not only ensured a victory but also etched their names in the record books. The fastest-ever 50, 100, 150, and 200 in Test cricket were achieved in a span of just two hours, creating complete mayhem for the Bangladeshi bowlers. This aggressive approach was a clear statement of intent, showcasing India's ability to shift gears and dominate the game at will.

Rohit Sharma's captaincy was instrumental in this historic achievement. His fearless approach, combined with brilliant tactical decisions, kept the opposition on the back foot. Rohit's leadership has been a revelation, as he led by example with his batting and inspired the team to push the boundaries of what is possible in Test cricket.

The emergence of new stars

The series also highlighted the emergence of new stars in the Indian team. Akash Deep's performance was a revelation, as he displayed venomous pace and impeccable control. His inclusion added depth to the already formidable Indian bowling attack, providing the team with more options and flexibility.

Yashasvi Jaiswal's batting was another bright spot. His composed and mature approach at the crease, combined with his ability to accelerate when needed, made him a valuable asset to the team. Jaiswal's partnership with Rohit Sharma at the top of the order laid a strong foundation for the team, allowing the middle order to capitalize on the starts.

A team effort

The series victory was a testament to the collective effort of the entire team. From the bowlers who relentlessly hunted down wickets to the batsmen who fearlessly scored runs, every member of the team played a crucial role. The support staff and coaches also deserve credit for their meticulous planning and preparation, which enabled the team to execute their strategies to perfection.

Looking ahead

With these victories, India has positioned itself strongly for the WTC final. The confidence gained from these wins will be invaluable as the team prepares for the challenging tour of Australia. The buffer created by these victories allows the team to approach the remaining Tests with a sense of freedom and confidence, knowing that they have already achieved a significant part of their objective.

The series against Bangladesh has set the stage for what promises to be an exciting and competitive journey towards the WTC final. The team's ability to perform under pressure, adapt to different conditions, and break records bodes well for their future endeavors.

Conclusion

The Test series victory over Bangladesh was crucial and special for India for several reasons. It provided the team with a much-needed buffer in their quest for the WTC final, showcased their ability to dominate and adapt in challenging conditions, and highlighted the emergence of new stars. The collective effort of the entire team, led by the brilliant captaincy of Rohit Sharma, ensured that India not only secured crucial wins but also created history along the way.

As the team looks ahead to the remaining Tests, the confidence gained from these victories will be instrumental in their pursuit of glory in the WTC final. The Indian cricket team's journey is a testament to their resilience, skill, and determination, and the series victory over Bangladesh is a shining example of their excellence in the longest format of the game.

Pakistan cricket: Going from bad to worse

The world of cricket is filled with thrilling stories, unexpected victories, and heart-wrenching losses. The recent two-Test series between Bangladesh and Pakistan is a story that will be etched in the annals of cricket history. Bangladesh, a team often regarded as underdogs, achieved a historic feat by whitewashing Pakistan on their home soil in Test cricket. This victory, however, also casts a spotlight on the consistent downfall of Pakistan cricket, a decline that has been evident since last September's Asia Cup and has now culminated in this series loss.

Bangladesh’s glorious triumph: A new dawn

Bangladesh's triumph in Pakistan is nothing short of historic. For years, Bangladesh has been striving to establish itself as a formidable force in Test cricket. This series victory marks a significant milestone in their journey. The win is not just about the result; it’s about the grit, determination, and resilience that Bangladesh displayed throughout the series.

In the first Test in Rawalpindi, Bangladesh showcased their ability to dig deep and find glory in a time of upheaval. The team was up against a Pakistan side that, despite its recent struggles, still boasted experienced players and the advantage of playing on home turf. However, Bangladesh defied the odds. Their bowlers, led by the fiery pace of Taskin Ahmed and the spin wizardry of Taijul Islam, dismantled Pakistan's batting lineup, while their batsmen put up solid performances that gave them the upper hand.

The second Test in Karachi was the clincher. Bangladesh, having tasted blood in the first Test, went for the kill. The win was comprehensive, with the team dominating in all aspects of the game. Pakistan, on the other hand, looked listless and out of ideas, a shadow of the team that once ruled the cricketing world.

For Bangladesh, this series win is a validation of their hard work over the years. It also sends a strong message to the cricketing world: Bangladesh is no longer a team to be taken lightly. This victory will undoubtedly boost their confidence as they look ahead to future challenges.

Pakistan cricket’s steep decline

While Bangladesh’s victory is a cause for celebration, Pakistan’s performance in the series is a matter of grave concern. The decline in Pakistan cricket has been apparent for some time now, and this series loss is the latest in a series of disappointments.

The downfall began last September during the Asia Cup, where Pakistan, despite being one of the favorites, failed to reach the final. This was followed by a dismal performance in the ODI World Cup, where they were knocked out in the group stage. The T20 World Cup was no better, with Pakistan once again falling short of expectations.

The Test series against Bangladesh has now added another layer to Pakistan's woes. Losing at home to Bangladesh, a team that has traditionally struggled in foreign conditions, is a new low for Pakistan cricket. The series exposed several flaws in the Pakistan team: an inconsistent batting lineup, a bowling attack that lacks bite, and a team culture that seems to be crumbling under pressure.

The first Test in Rawalpindi was a microcosm of Pakistan’s current state. The team failed to capitalize on their home advantage, with their batsmen struggling to put runs on the board and their bowlers unable to contain Bangladesh’s batsmen. The second Test in Karachi was even more alarming, with Pakistan’s performance deteriorating further. The team seemed devoid of any fight or spirit, as Bangladesh outplayed them in every department.

The root causes of Pakistan’s downfall

Pakistan’s decline cannot be attributed to a single factor. Instead, it is the result of several issues that have been festering for some time.

One of the primary reasons is the lack of stability in the team. Over the past year, Pakistan cricket has seen frequent changes in leadership, coaching staff, and team selection. This has created an environment of uncertainty, with players unsure of their roles and positions in the team. The lack of a consistent and clear strategy has also contributed to the team’s poor performances.

Another issue is the lack of investment in domestic cricket. Pakistan’s domestic structure has been criticized for not producing quality players who can perform at the international level. The gap between domestic and international cricket in Pakistan is widening, and the current crop of players is struggling to bridge that gap.

The mental aspect of the game is also a concern for Pakistan. The team has often been criticized for lacking the mental toughness required to succeed at the highest level. This was evident in the recent series against Bangladesh, where Pakistan crumbled under pressure, while Bangladesh thrived.

The road ahead: Can Pakistan rebuild?

The question now is: where does Pakistan cricket go from here? The first step towards rebuilding is acknowledging the issues and addressing them head-on.

Pakistan needs to bring stability to the team. This means appointing a captain and coaching staff who can provide clear direction and strategy. The selectors also need to be consistent in their choices, giving players a fair chance to prove themselves.

Investing in domestic cricket is crucial. Pakistan needs to revamp its domestic structure to produce players who are ready for international cricket. This includes providing better facilities, coaching, and opportunities for young players to develop their skills.

Mental toughness is another area that needs attention. Pakistan’s players need to develop the ability to handle pressure and perform in high-stakes situations. This can be achieved through mental conditioning programs and by playing more high-pressure matches.

Finally, Pakistan cricket needs to rediscover its fighting spirit. The team that once took pride in being unpredictable and resilient has lost its way. Pakistan needs to go back to its roots, playing fearless and aggressive cricket.

Conclusion: A tale of two contrasting teams

The Bangladesh-Pakistan Test series is a tale of two teams heading in opposite directions. For Bangladesh, this series win is a historic achievement that will inspire future generations. For Pakistan, it is a wake-up call that things need to change, and quickly.

As Bangladesh celebrates its victory, Pakistan must take a long, hard look in the mirror. The decline of Pakistan cricket is a sad sight for fans who have witnessed the team’s glorious past. However, with the right steps, there is hope that Pakistan can rebuild and return to its former glory. The journey will be long and challenging, but for a cricket-loving nation like Pakistan, it is a journey worth taking.

A story of many "Just one bad day(s)" in Indian Sport

Sports is a theater of unpredictability, where every match has the potential to etch itself into the annals of history. Indian sports, revered for its passion and fervor, has seen its fair share of triumphs. However, the last few years have also been a testament to the painful reality of "just one bad day"—where a momentary lapse or a twist of fate snatched victory away, leaving fans and players heartbroken.

June 2017: The Champions Trophy Final

The stage was set. After a commanding performance in the preliminary rounds, where India decimated Pakistan, the Indian team was brimming with confidence. But in the final, the tables turned. Pakistan, battered and bruised in the earlier encounter, came out with renewed vigor. India's batsmen, who had dazzled throughout the tournament, faltered under pressure. That one bad day saw Pakistan lift the Champions Trophy, leaving Indian fans in disbelief.

June 2021: WTC Championship Final - A Dream Deferred

Two years after the heartbreak in the Champions Trophy, India found itself on the cusp of history again—this time in the inaugural World Test Championship final. Facing New Zealand, a team known for its resilience, India faltered on the biggest stage. After dominating the Test arena for years, India's batting collapsed when it mattered most. New Zealand seized the opportunity, and India was left to rue another missed chance, the elusive Test mace slipping away.

September 2021: The Abandoned Test in England

India's tour of England in 2021 was a rollercoaster of emotions. After taking a 2-1 lead in the series, the final Test at Old Trafford was poised to be the decider. However, the match was abandoned due to COVID-19 concerns, and when it was finally played a year later, the momentum had shifted. England, now a rejuvenated side, capitalized on India's rustiness, winning the match and denying India a historic series victory. Another opportunity lost, another heartbreak for Indian cricket.

October 2021: The Dubai Nightmare

The T20 World Cup of 2021 brought back painful memories. Facing Pakistan in Dubai, India was considered the favorite, given their dominance over their arch-rivals in World Cup history. But that day, everything went wrong. Losing the toss was the first blow, and what followed was a nightmare. Pakistan chased down India's total without losing a wicket, handing India a crushing defeat and breaking a 29-year-old streak. A tournament that promised so much ended in despair.

October 2022: Semi-Final Sorrow in Australia

Fast forward to the T20 World Cup in 2022. India, after a strong showing in the group stages, faced England in the semi-finals. With hopes high, the Indian batting lineup crumbled, and England chased down the target with ease, knocking India out of the tournament. It was another instance where just one bad day on the field cost India dearly, leaving fans and players alike questioning what went wrong.

June 2023: WTC Championship Final - Deja Vu

A year after their defeat in the first WTC final, India earned another shot at glory. This time, their opponents were Australia. The script, however, remained the same. Despite India's efforts, Australia outplayed them in every department, handing India another defeat in a World Test Championship final. The dream of lifting the Test mace remained unfulfilled, and the heartbreak deepened.

November 2023: ODI World Cup Final in Ahmedabad

The ODI World Cup returned to India in 2023, and expectations were sky-high. The final in Ahmedabad was a spectacle, with India facing Australia, the two heavyweights of world cricket. However, the Indian team, which had shown brilliance throughout the tournament, faltered at the last hurdle. Australia, known for their big-match temperament, outclassed India, leaving a billion hearts broken as the World Cup slipped away once more.

July 2024: Asia Cup Final - Women’s Team Heartbreak

The Indian women’s cricket team, too, faced its share of heartbreak. After an unbeaten run in the Asia Cup, they faced Sri Lanka in the final. The Indian team, which had dominated throughout, stumbled in the final. Sri Lanka seized the moment, and the Indian women were left pondering what could have been. It was a harsh reminder that even the best teams can have that one bad day.

August 2024: Vinesh Phogat and Olympic Heartbreaks

August 2024 was a month of heartbreaks across multiple disciplines. Vinesh Phogat, after defeating the World No. 1 in wrestling, was disqualified in the final due to a controversial decision, denying her a potential gold. In hockey, India’s men’s and women’s teams both fell short of podium finishes despite showing promise throughout the tournament. The archers, badminton players, and athletes, too, couldn’t convert their potential into medals. The biggest blow came when Neeraj Chopra, India’s golden boy, lost to Arshad Nadeem in the javelin throw at the Paris Olympics, his first-ever loss to him, adding another chapter to India’s tale of missed opportunities.

August 2024: ODI Series Loss to Sri Lanka

The month ended on a sour note with the Indian men's cricket team losing an ODI series to Sri Lanka. After a tie in the first match, India’s inability to handle spin led to two inept performances, resulting in a series loss. It was a disappointing end to a series that India was expected to win comfortably.

We shall overcome.....

The last few years have been a rollercoaster for Indian sports fans. From the highs of expectations to the crushing lows of defeat, the journey has been tumultuous. However, these heartbreaks also serve as reminders of the unpredictability of sports and the resilience needed to bounce back. As India continues to chase glory on the global stage, the lessons learned from these "just one bad day" moments will hopefully fuel future triumphs.
Jai Ho!