No ifs and buts, India in a must-win game against Australia

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ASHIM

25 February, 2012

India has to win their match against Australia and also against Sri Lanka in the remaining fixtures of the CB series to progress into the finals. Their first real test lies tomorrow when they take on Australia at Sydney Cricket Ground.

THE RIFT between Virender Sehwag and MS Dhoni has been the most talked aspect of the ongoing ODI tri-series - so much so, one has to remind oneself that a tri-series is going on - going by the press that the supposed 'rift' is getting in the Indian media. The Indian team must put away all thes off-field problems and concentrate for their all-important clash against Australia tomorrow at Sydney Cricket Ground. There is no way out for the Indian team, as they have to win both the remaining matches, first against Aussies and then Sri Lanka to reach the finals.

With several calls from former greats suggesting Sachin to resign, it has only pressurised the little master, who is still on the lookout for his century of centuries. The Indian team has enough pressure to perform during tomorrow’s game and these situations only provide additional pressure, which might lead to negative energy in the team. The team needs to regroup in the field at least and show the world about their togetherness by beating Australia. It will be a test of character for India tomorrow.

The Indians have played well in patches but they have failed to put up consistent performances during the series. Only players like Gambhir and Dhoni have shown some resistance against their opponents. When these players have failed, the Indian team has been in helpless situations. It is time for all the players to contribute towards the game in all the departments of the game. Even the bowlers, who had put up an impressive performance during the Test series, have looked out of options. They also need to deliver now. It is now or never.

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As far as the rotation policy of the openers is concerned, we might see all of them namely, Tendulkar, Sehwag and Gambhir in action, as they would be looking to field in their best team. Rohit Sharma might be the player to miss out on, as his performance during the series has not been up to the mark.

For Australians, they have put up their best performances against the Indian team during the series. Though, they have been found wanting against the Lankan Lions. It may be due to the confidence that they play with the Indian team that they get the better out of themselves. They would like to win the match against the Australians and throw the World champions out of the tournament.

Sri Lanka is currently placed on the top of the table with 15 points. Still, they are not sure of making it to through to the finals, as India could play a spoil sport by winning both their respective matches and Sri Lanka lose both their remaining matches. It is better if India takes one match at a time and see what happens during their game.