India vs Australia 2019: 6 important takeaways from the ODI series

#2. India Are No Longer Masters of the Chase

India's ability to chase big scores has diminished in recent times

There was a time some years ago when India was a team that no score seemed safe against. A powerhouse batting line-up with the greatest chase-master Kohli and the greatest finisher Dhoni had the ability to overcome any target.

The Indian team was able to pull off some of the most mind-blowing victories when faced with daunting scores by the opposition. Cast your mind back to the 2013 series between these two teams when twice, Indians chased down 350+ targets.

But things don’t seem as rosy now as they did then. Suddenly, the Indian line-up seems vulnerable when batting second and pursuing opposition’s high totals.

To some extent, this was bound to happen. As Indian players have become older, opposition bowlers are starting to find better tactics against them. Also, bowlers around the world are becoming more adept at the art of containing marauding batsmen.

But one major reason that has specifically affected India is the disappearance of Dhoni as a conqueror of steep required run-rates. MSD has clearly declined as a batsman and was facing serious questions some time ago.

He has regained his form but now seems a perfect man to shepherd his team in the chase of a manageable target which requires sensible play. However, when it comes to subduing escalating required run-rates, he is a shadow of his former self. Hence, Indian batting is more manageable for the opposition.

The combination of all the above reasons has made India’s tag as best chasers look a bit outdated.