Is this Indian team invincible?

We won’t have to wait too long to find out that, writes Bishan Singh Bedi

So far, the Indian team has not been stretched even once in its pool. Does it really mean that this Indian team is invincible?

Indians are having it a bit too easy even for their own comfort, as the cricket World Cup is advancing towards the knockout stage. This is a matter of concern for genuine followers of Indian cricket.

So far the Indian team has not been stretched even once in its pool. Does it really mean that this Indian team is invincible?

The truth is far from it. Let’s get away from the colourful crowds who flock stadiums to be seen and not so much understand the vicissitudes of the game. My apologies if I hurt anyone because my intention is to be pragmatic and not just a noisy cricket freak!

Just about all four teams vying for the World Cup are getting into the final phase with gradual increase of intensity, except India. I sincerely hope I’m wrong.

But going by the piggyback rides being enjoyed by the Rainas and Jadejas, it doesn’t appear the intensity is in full swing. I am going by the one-sided contests the Indian team has been involved in.

Ireland beating Zimbabwe and Pakistan getting the better of the Proteas — both games were nail-biting finishes — mean that the winners as well as losers have gained some vital ‘nerves’ experience, especially Pakistan and South Africa.

To achieve that ‘feel’ in the knockout stage may be too much to handle for the Indians.

Admittedly, this World Cup has seen the bat dominate the ball and scores of 300 plus and 400 too were pretty much in the realm of common grasp.

Bowling not exposed

In this environment the Indian bowling has not been exposed at all. If anything, the Indian bowlers might have surprised themselves too. But let us not be smug on this front as during the tri-series the Indian attack was inadequate.

We can only keep our fingers crossed and hope for the best. But is the Indian camp knowingly prepared for the unknown, popularly known as the worst?! We won’t have to wait too long to find out that.