Monday 4 April 2011

When red and blue started bleeding together

I thought I should capture these emotions as soon as possible after the Tango and Rumba of 2nd april ended. My prolonged wait and agony has now ended, the always elusive trophy have been retained by us. Nation’s hope and trust was restored by this team following a dismal performance in the Caribbean four years ago. Dhoni has always been different; I had always felt that his serenity actually brings the pacifying tint to this pressurized and hyped game.

The Indian operation in this world cup has been nearly smooth and silky. This world cup truly marks the example of stars living up to their expectations and the other players filling the gap wherever needed. Tournament kicked off with Sehwag’s swashbuckling century against Bangladesh. India stumbled little in the middle of the tournament by conceding the tied match to England and losing the already captured match to SA. Then how they came back strongly by beating WIndies in group stages and defeating Aussies,Pakistan and SLankans in the knockouts for the WC glory. I would take this as peaking at the right time and hitting the iron when it was hottest.

Batting had clicked in the first two games, then I from the WIndies match bowling and fielding also rose and joined the Jamboree. Raina’s inclusion from the QFs brought sharpness to the field. Sachin scored most of the runs along with Mercurial Yuvraj with both bat and bowl leading the batting attack. I felt seam bowling has been of supreme quality as spin department was always expected to fare better on the Indian pitches. Zak ‘Scotch ‘Khan, as they say Zaheer is like a wine or scotch whisky.He is getting finer as he ages on. He has mastered the art of bowling with potent reverse swings, well directed bouncers and those compelling in swingers. With Munaf his close companion bowling well, even Nehra they ensured that Seam bowling pulls the right chords.

2007 had been a tragic performance, losing to Bangladesh in the opening match and they crashed out of the world cup. Even before we could settle in our seats to watch the world cup, we were out from this prestigious moment. Those were the times we felt very low and the most sorrowful moments. Bouncing back from that is an exemplary redemption.

A special mention must go to coach Gary Kirsten. He helped the team to phase out of the shoddy Greg Chappell era to the fresh air of this new breed of free flowing cricket. Now we have got good, confident young players backed up by ever supporting senior players. Job has not finished yet, the team needs to be invincible and champions in all terms and all sense. They must show the same domination in the upcoming tours of England and Australia.



Celebrations began on every nook and corner of India right after the match ended, with people coming out of their homes, bursting crackers, waving flags and dancing throughout the night.I imagine this cricket is not a game, its a religion, its a force that unites the nation.Well done India, I am going to cherish this moment for long and hope I get this feeling very soon again.