Insipid display by Indian bowlers

The lack of sting in the Indian bowling was on view yet again in the third `Test'. Even if the Indians make the early inroads, they invariably fail to consolidate on the gains.

This has been a major stumbling block with the Indian team and has as much to do with mind as with ability. At the first sign of resistance, the Indians seem to get demoralised, which is not how it should be.

Victories, especially in the much more demanding world of Test cricket, are achieved by the ability to finish things off. This is an area where teams like Australia, South Africa and Pakistan, are adept at.

And unless we address the problem, unearth the right bowlers and plan our strategy accordingly, we would continue to be whipping boys outside the sub-continent.

One look at the Indian bowling and it is obvious that there is a lack of clarity of thought and planning. In fact, on occasions, the bowlers just seem to be going through the motions.

At no stage of a `Test' should one get the feeling that the runs are being conceded easily. Yet, one got this distinct impression after watching the proceedings on the third day.

It is this inadequacy on the part of the Indian bowlers that allowed the South Africans to take command in Johannesburg. And happily for the Proteas, their captain is leading from the front.

Indeed, Shaun Pollock is an inspirational figure for his men, bowling with fire, batting with determination and setting an example in the process.

He is just the kind of cricketer who can impose himself on a contest, turn the match around. He does remind me of Kapil Dev, an outstanding all-rounder, but to reach the heights conquered by Kapil, Pollock has got to travel a fair way still.

And what can we say about Kallis. This man's commitment is astonishing. He strives to excel in all departments of the game, and the manner in which he has worked on his ability to counter spin is eye-opening.

Kallis was always a fine player of pace, but in the early stages of his career, did struggle against the spinners. However, the big-built all-rounder worked tirelessly at the nets to iron out the flaws, and is a much better player of spin these days, even using his feet when the ball is flighted.

There is a lesson in this for the Indian batsmen as well. They too have to work overtime to overcome their bugbear, which is pace and bounce on responsive tracks. It is never too late to learn, and as the old saying goes `there is no substitute for hard work.'

K. SRIKKANTH

www.krishsrikkanth.com

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Section  : Sport
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