Yes, the win by England against Pakistan was predictable. It was a thorough professional display by England in all departments especially fielding (Pakistan dropped 3 catches and missed 1 run-out chance) and ably supported by insipid captaincy by Shahid Afridi's that turned into Englishmen's favor.
As indicated in my column this morning that captains have to be ahead of the match to stay in the match, we saw their strike bowler Saeed Ajmal bowling his 3rd over when England required just another 40 runs to win. Also, Shahid Afridi had bowled himself on to bowl his fourth over when just over 30 runs were required. Rather, Shahid Afridi should have brought himself to bowl the 1st two over of the match, as Englishmen baring KP and Collingwood are shaky against spin and then allowed Saeed Ajmal to complete his quota by the 13th over of the innings. Again, we saw Fawad Alam batting at No.8, when all seemed lost by then. All these happened because there was no game plan 2 to be executed.
On the other hand, England had taken a bold step by bringing in Yardy into the playing XI, being aware that Pakistan are good players of spin. I was impressed with the plan of Short-pitched bowling by England to the top order batsman.
Pakistan have themselves to blame after their pathetic show thus far. It requires a stupendous effort from here on for them to make it into the Semi-Finals, which seems far fetched at this stage.
England, on the other hand, are a confident bunch and 1 more victory, will see them through to Semi-Finals. England starts favorites to get into last four.
South Africa, had a easy game against NZ.Yes, as indicated in my column, Gibbs was roped in at No.3. I think their game plan of having its wickets intact for the final onslaught has worked in thier favor - the last 77 runs being scored in mere 45 balls. Brendon Mc Cullum has to fire for NZ, and Hopkins is wasted at No.7. Probably, Mills can be brought in for the remaining matches to replace him.
SA looks a much stronger unit now especially after its loss to India. Given this current form, they can make it to the semis.
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