Form and Conditions minimize India’s chances for a Semi-Final berth

India’s current form and fitness does not give a pleasing story to the Indian fans running to this World Cup. Its pace attack is the weakest among major teams. Indians rely on their spinners and if they are not effective, almost every match will bring extra pressure on the batsmen. 

If one has to compare the statistics after the World Cup 2011, Indian spinners’ economy rate is 4.97 in New Zealand and 5.02 in South Africa. The fast bowlers, but for Bhuvaneshwar Kumar, is finding it difficult to bowl a stump attack. Inshant’s ODI economy is currently at 5.69 and while that of Umesh Yadav has been 5.90 and that of Shami is 5.67. Thus it is the weakest amongst major ODI teams in the tournament.

India is struggling to find a opener after the successful combination of Sachin – Ganguly, Sachin – Sehwag, Sehwag – Gautam and this is hurting the middle order batsmen really. To me, Shikkar Dhawan is a big flop and to continue with him with his limited feet movement, is not giving any good signal for the tournament. To add to that, Rohit is a highly talented player with an average performance. If India has to perform, they need to rely on Rahane, Kohli and Raina. I would certainly think hard in terms of Binny opening the innings with Rohit Sharma and add one extra all rounder in Axar Patel. By this, India can think of having 5 bowlers by bringing in Ashwin for all the matches.

India at best will come behind South Africa in its group stage. They will meet stronger teams in the Quarter Finals but they are not equipped enough to qualify for the Semi-Finals  

So, let us accept the fact that Indians will not go past Quarter Final stages. Let the better team win!!

Indian Team:

Batsmen: Rohit Sharma, Dhawan, Rahane, Kohli, Rayudu, Raina

Bowlers: Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Ashwin, Shami, Bhuvaneshwar Kumar, Axar Patel

All-rounders:Dhoni ©, Jadeja, Binny

Indian Fixtures:

Vs Pak  - Adelaide - Feb 15^th

Vs South Africa – Melbourne – Feb 22^nd

Vs UAE – Perth – Feb 28^th

Vs West Indies – Perth – Mar 6^th

Vs Ireland – Hamilton – Mar 10^th

Vs Zimbabwe – Auckland – Mar 14^th