Face of Nation : The semifinal loss to New Zealand in the World Cup is going to hurt Indian cricket for some time. This was a perfectly crafted combination, forget the debate over the No. 4 slot, and Virat Kohli must be brooding and coach Ravi Shastri obviously feeling distraught at the lost opportunity.
Shastri had watched the epic 1983 triumph from the dressing room and here he was the master of the ring, guiding a young bunch to conquer the opponents. But the script went wrong and India ended up losing to a rival which was better organised and determined to cross the line first.
The playing conditions in England were supposed to tax the Indians and they did, demanding a much improved approach when batting and far more discipline when bowling. Everything fell into place, despite the lone loss (to England) in the league phase.
Yet, India finished at the top of the table and that was some indication of the overall strength and preparation of the squad. New Zealand, however, played its role of an underdog splendidly and took over the reins at the appropriate time.
India will have to wait four more years to try and lay its hands on the Cup. The 2011 win at home was a result of some sound tactical planning — mostly flat pitches and a slow turner for the semifinal against Pakistan.
What can one expect from India in 2023 when it plays the host? Would it be a repeat of the 2011 edition? It is surely difficult to say but safe to conclude that as the home team India would be a firm favourite.
