Second ODI — An Encounter for the archives!

Determination can make you do wonders – this phrase is perfectly applicable as far as today’s display by team India is concerned. Team India has made the festival of Eid memorable for billions of fans!

After many years, the Indian batsmen have displayed a commendable fighting spirit. Nothing appeared to be favorable for team India. Whatever might be the views expressed by the experts sitting in the studio, it was never going to be easy to combat the deadly bowlers of Australia. India was chasing a huge target of 360 runs after all.

As usual, Shikhar Dhawan got a reprieve when he was dropped by Haddin, but three fours off three balls clearly showed the spirit of not giving up. To be very frank, a friend of mine rang up and asked me not to watch the match – just to get rid of the possible embarrassment of a second consecutive defeat.

But the key was to remain determined. The commentator made a very heartening comment that if any team can chase this big score, it is India. Spin was introduced in 12^th over and only 5 runs given by Doherty. India had to keep the run rate moving.

But then came the real big hitting! In no time India reached 155 off 23 overs! After the departure of Dhawan, Kohli came in. Thereafter, he and Rohit just batted superbly. They timed the ball beautifully. Both reached their centuries and India won with 7 overs to spare! What a chase this was!

In the end it was a standing ovation for team India. Kapil Dev said that we are lucky to watch this historical match. Sidhu compared the flow of Indian batting with noise of a sea!

Rohit Sharma showed great maturity today. His lazy elegance and a laid back yet committed attitude helped the team. This was a befitting answer to question marks over playing short balls.

Australian players clearly looked demoralized. Ultimately the inflated ego of the Australians proved fatal for them. It is better that they shed out their attitude as they are no more a super power in international cricket.

Virat Kohli has made 10 centuries while chasing and India has won all of them. Honestly, we have found another Sachin Tendulkar in the form of Kohli. My sincere tribute to the brave fighters of team India. Another world cup is not far away for us now!