India should bat second

Once again India find themselves in a familiar but daunting situation. Another final, writes Arun Lal.

Once again India find themselves in a familiar but daunting situation. It is another final. In the past few years, they have been playing exceptional cricket, only to falter in the end. Today, it does appear that the advantage and momentum rests with the Indians.

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In the last match, the bowlers did a great job. It is heartening to know that both Zaheer and Kartik had a good day and their confidence levels will be high. Kaif was spectacular under pressure. The last batsman in the batting order always has a tough time in one-day cricket. Very rarely can he hold his position and gain recognition. Kaif thrives on such situations, where he has 20-plus overs to play. It is great for a team going into a final with almost the entire team in form and feeling good. I would continue to advocate the inclusion of a fifth bowler even though it may appear that the 'seven batsmen strategy' paid off. We lack sting in the bowling just when we need to press home the advantage. It is possible that a wicket at that stage could make the difference between winning and losing.

Also, why stop at the seventh batsman? Why not the eighth? It also puts far too much pressure on the four bowlers. If you are insecure with six world class batsmen, how can you feel secure with only four bowlers and that too, three of them being rookies?

However, now is not the time to make changes. It is more or less certain that the Indians will retain the winning combination, as they should. In that event, I believe that they have a much better chance chasing the target. Firstly, they have a side totally skewed in favour of batting and would be confident, having already chased successfully. Secondly, the batsmen who are battle-hardened and boast of being one of the best combinations in the world, are more capable of handling pressure than the bowlers, who apart from Zaheer are near rookies at this level.

Finally, although not apparently but covertly, the dew factor did seem to play a part. We did not see a single ball turn or reverse swing. In the latter part of the innings, the ball seemed to be skidding through, making it very difficult for the bowlers. Afridi and Shoaib Malik were rendered totally ineffective. Even Sami and Akhtar went for runs. In fact, it looked as though Pakistan had suddenly and inexplicably, lost it. This is not to take anything away from the amazing Dravid/Kaif partnership.

I do remember Sri Lanka hammering Australia in the World Cup final at Lahore while chasing, because of the dew. Eventually, the team that can hold its nerve is the one that should come ou winner.