Sport - Sports : General

Something missing in the Indian team

India's inability to take the final steps needed to secure a trophy is not so much a matter of temperament as composition. By winning the series against Pakistan and Australia, the locals proved their ability to survive the pressure-cooker atmosphere that embraces these engagements. Bear in mind that these series last for weeks and are covered with the same intensity as an election campaign. And India prevailed. These fellows have been living with pressure since they first wore the cricketing colours of their country.

Accordingly it is not fair to accuse Sourav Ganguly's team of lacking a sense of occasion. But something is missing. This much could be told from this side's capitulation in the World Cup final, a match over before it had begun, or at any rate finished after a single over had been completed. Ganguly's decision to field first revealed a weakness in his way of thinking. Likewise Zaheer Khan's first few deliveries were those of an over-excited man. India played with a lot of passion at a time when cool heads were needed.

A lost chance

India's failure to polish off the Australians on the final day in Sydney told the same tale. Events of the fifth afternoon were overshadowed by the emotion attached to Steve Waugh's retirement, a saga that had been running for several weeks. Waugh's defiance allowed his side to save the day. Little attention was paid to the tactics pursued by the visitor.

India had a chance to win the match and did not take it. Ganguly held back, seemed to be frozen into inactivity.

Far from attacking the batsmen and changing the bowling when wickets refused to fall he was trapped between belief and panic.

Ajit Agarkar and Irfan Pathan spent sessions grazing in the outfield yet were as dangerous as the spinners. Far from imposing his will upon the match, Ganguly waited for things to happen. It has not worked, and it never will work. Sport and warfare require the seizing of the tide in the affairs of men.

India's most recent defeat in the final of the Asia Cup was anticipated because Sri Lanka had been the best team in the competition. Doubtless, preparation played its part in that. In truth India was lucky to reach the last stage. Again, though, India did not take its chance.

Where is the problem?

If temperament is not to blame wherein might the problem lie? India has been bound by a spirit that rises in adversity. Ganguly's team has enjoyed the opportunity to take the world by surprise. Spirit and the contributions of a handful of magnificent cricketers have taken the team almost to the top. No one can miss the unity and fighting outlook of the side.

But take a closer look at the players involved. They are a mixture of superb experienced men and energetic youngsters not quite in the same class. India has an outstanding bunch of senior players, possibly the best in its history. These seasoned professionals have come together under a popular and respected coach and a captain who manages to combine the aspect of the warrior and the cheeky schoolboy. These men have taken their team on a thrilling journey.

The rest of the team consists of the aspiring and willing. Now and then these players contribute something startling but they suffer from the inconsistency often detected in youth.

No place for hiding

Consider our reaction when one of the top men fails. Are we not taken aback? Do we not start wondering what is wrong with the chap? Has his technique gone to pot? What about his eyesight? Is he suffering from some domestic crisis?

Then consider our reaction when one of the younger brigade struts his stuff. Are we not surprised? Do we not regret previous suspicions about his abilities?

Does it not all tell a story? A team is as strong as its weakest link. There can be no hiding place at the highest levels.

India has some wonderful players and a fine team but it is vulnerable. When every man is called upon to do his duty then the side falls down. Ganguly's problem is that he knows he is bluffing. His hand is not that strong. Accordingly he retreats when he must attack. Opponents sense his doubts. Colleagues can feel confidence ebbing away. And then the moment is lost.

In truth India has some great cricketers and a good side that has surpassed itself. But something is indeed missing. More kings and aces are needed so that Ganguly can keep throwing money on to the table. Failing that the youngsters must work till their failures and not their successes take us, and their captain, by surprise.

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