Indo-Pak second T20: Toss an important factor

28 December, 2012

After India's loss against Pakistan in the first T20 match against Pakistan, both teams are now gearing for the second ODI, which is scheduled to be played later today at Ahmedabad's Motera's stadium. But, the main focus would be on the pitch conditions, dew factor, along with the toss, which could play a vital role in the match.

IT IS a do or die situation for India, as they have a chance to level the series by winning the match. The pitch at Sardar Patel stadium is going to assist the batsmen more, and the bowlers might have a tough time dealing with batsmen from both sides, which comprises of some of the best batsmen in the world.

The bowlers need to stick to their basics of bowling good line and length, but it is better if they do not expect any help from the pitch. They need to keep changing the pace of the ball to make the batsmen guessing, which can lead to their downfall. Even spinners might not get that great a support from the pitch, as it is not going wear and tear in a span of 40 overs only.

In all probability, the team winning the toss would love to chase down the target that has been set, especially India - who has a good record while chasing, and batting has always been its strength in spite of their batsmen falling like a pack of cards in the last T20 fixture against Pakistan. The Pakistani team might also fear that the Indian team may chase the score they set due to their strong batting line-up, so they might as well prefer to bat second, and also attack the inexperienced Indian bowlers. Apart from this, the other reason why both teams would bat second is the chance of dew on the field in the second half of the innings, which might make batting easier in the second half, as the bowlers might find it difficult for them to grip the ball.

But, things such as pitch, weather conditions, dew factor and toss are things that are beyond their control, but what is within their control is the way they perform. So, it is for sure that the team, which handles the pitch and dew conditions better in Ahmedabad - will be triumphant.