Here comes the super 8. In reality I have nothing much to write now as I guess I have already put in my thoughts about what needs to be done. The Indian's need to stick around with the game plan that suits them the best in these conditions. However one may have noticed that I am clear from the day one about the seam bowlers and what they should be doing. The results are for all to see. Zaheer pitched the ball right up there to the batsmen and he was unplayable at times. He landed the ball on the seam and the ball did the trick for him. These are not very suitable conditions for swing because the cold seems to beat down the friction that is required. Had the weather been anything between 17-18 degrees celcius then seam and awing would have been perfect. Wicket to wicket and on the seam, pitching it up is the key.
About the rest of the team they look in harmony, however the niggles they are nursing is a cause of concern. I hope each of them had adequate rest and are ready to go.
West Indies may have displayed good cricket till now and they were ruthless with Aussies, but I feel Indian's have an edge over them. It is now palpable that without Gayle the team has nothing much to talk about. However Gayle is the big cat. Some one needs to bell him.
If Windies bat first they should be restricted to 140-150 and if Indian's bat first then 190 + is a good score. Even if Gayle is around this is defendable.
My verdict for the game India wins (chances though is 60%). I hope Gambhir plays his usual game this time.
