It would be very easy to say the the ‘Team India’ concept was bogus and just beating a hapless Sri Lankan team does not make India the world beaters. That losing to South Africa in the first one dayer proves that it was a fluke against Sri Lanka. That the joy was short-lived.

I think not. I saw most of the game. And realized some important points. Yes, the top order failed, but hey, yet again there was someone who stepped up and played the innings that the lower order could play around. Yuvraj played extremely well and first Pathan, then Dhoni and finally Agarkar and Harbajan kept their heads (for the most part) and put up a decent total. From 30-odd for 5 to get to 249 in 50 overs against a pretty good South African bowling attack showed that the spirit still exists.

And then, to keep pegging away at the batsmen, striking every now and then, making it not-so-easy for them to get to the target, also proves that the process is working. Of course, because of the early collapse, India had to sacrifice Kartik as a bowler and choose Gambhir to bat, but all it would have taken is one wicket. If Kemp had gone early in the innings or if Kallis had gone at any time, it would have made a huge difference.

Anyway, the subscription is not cancelled and I am looking forward to seeing some more games. This team India reminds me of the World Cup times.