India had a very good run in the World Cup, reaching the semi-finals. Here are some of the positives to look forward to in future events:
See also : The Best XI Of The World Cup 2019
See also : The Best Moments Of Indias World Cup 2019
- India’s Pace Battery
The Indian fast bowlers were accurate and flawless. Both the Bumrah-Shami and the Bumrah-Bhuvi combinations were impressive at the powerplay and at the death. The pacers, especially Bumrah, guaranteed wickets even in the middle overs. Indian pace bowlers have never been so deadly in an ICC tournament before and the credit goes to Kohli’s belief on his bowlers and know-how of when to use them.
- Top order
India rely heavily on their top 3 to deliver the goods when it comes to batting. With Shikhar Dhawan injured early in the tournament, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli found an able replacement in KL Rahul to plug the hole left by Dhawan. They did not allow the middle order’s struggles affect them and delivered yet again on the big stage. India have never won an ODI when all 3 top order batsmen fail. This fact came back to haunt them in the semi-finals where the top three all fell for 1.
See also : Kohli And Shami Mastery Knock The Windies Out
- Rishabh Pant at #4
At the start of the World Cup, KL Rahul was the first choice #4. He was pushed up to open with Rohit Sharma after Dhawan’s injury, passing the baton on to Vijay Shankar. After Shankar was ruled out as well, the responsibility was entrusted on the young shoulders of Rishabh Pant. The southpaw made a huge case for himself with his fearless stroke-play. He is only 21 and can be groomed for the future, considering his immense potential.
- India’s fielding
India dropped the least number of catches in this World Cup. Gone are the days where India used to struggle with fielding. With captain Kohli’s huge emphasis on fitness and the team being put through constant yo-yo tests, the results have been outstanding to say the least. This Indian team has set the template for peak fielding.
- Ravindra Jadeja’s fighting 78 in the semi-final
After a top-order collapse left India 24–4 and later 92–6, Ravindra Jadeja was the last man standing between New Zealand and a breezy win. The man from Saurashtra would not budge, instead he dug deep with Dhoni and almost got India home. He targeted the right bowlers and used the right moments to attack. He brought the match down to the wire in a show of courage and a never-die attitude to remember fondly, despite the bitterness of a second consecutive semi-final exit.
See also : The Injuries Suffered By World Cup Teams And Its Impact
Over the course of the World Cup, India have been consistent and played top cricket. Positive performances have to be noted, appreciated and cherished. India will return strongly, with a more battle-hardened squad with a few changes here and there. The hopes of an entire nation will be burdened on 15 men every four years, but the Indian players always find a way to keep their fans happy, despite the outcome.
See also : ICC World Cup 2019 Final England’s Thrilling World Cup Win
Originally published at Sporcial.
