Will the real India please stand up?

Uncertainty is perhaps the reason why millions watch every India match, writes GR Viswanath.

Following Indian cricket is not an easy thing to do. Like most other matches, in the ongoing ODI series against England too, there is a big question about which Indian team will turn up on the day — a good one or one that will just make up the numbers. But this uncertainty is perhaps the reason why millions watch every India match.

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We are a team of extremes, brilliant one day and not figuring at all the next. The reason behind these fluctuating performances is difficult to point out. While batting, bowling and fielding all play their part (or not), at the end of the day, it is our batting that makes the team tick.

It is our batting that makes or breaks the day. Our bowling is dependent on helpful conditions, and otherwise any useful contribution is a bonus. It is almost as if no one can be a good bowler in typical one-day conditions. Our batting has always been our strength and our batsmen have to come good in all conditions — except maybe batting under lights — which is why I have always stressed on batting first in a day-nighter. Even in day matches it is always advisable to set a target rather than chase one under pressure.

But as for the ball repeatedly going in between the ’keeper and first slip, the two must have an understanding. It is usually the wicketkeeper that goes for the ball but it is always better to have discussed it earlier.