I am utterly happy that India, with sheer will and class, was able to vanquish Australia on Brisbane’s infamous soil. Indeed, India has done what no one had expected. Indian team proved that their bench strength is far better than the full-fledged Australian team.
When India defeated Australia last time, the opinions went afloat that India won the series just because Australia’s ace players like Smith and Warner were not playing. Nevertheless, this time, India’s bench strength knocked out the full-fledged Australian team— the team that was filled up to the brim with their key players. This event is truly the second biggest event in the history of Indian cricket after the 1983 World Cup.
You become a celebrity by performing brilliantly in the IPL, but you become a real hero by performing brilliantly in Test cricket. You become the torchbearer for the younger generation. Shubman Gill, Pujara, Rishabh Pant, Shardul, Siraj, Washington Sundar became heroes. The IPL has ended the fear of playing with these star Australian players. Australia had not lost in Brisbane for 32 years, however, the young brigade proved that even in Brisbane, India can win by chasing in the fourth innings.
Shubman Gill showed a glimpse of becoming a big player during the IPL itself. He often reminds me of the great Dilip Vengsarkar. Gill also plays straight on the rise and his timings are amazing. He has enough shots and has now come in the category of graceful player.
Rishabh Pant also gave a befitting reply to the selectors today. He was not selected in the T20I and ODI teams probably based on his performance in the IPL. Now even the selectors know that it is not appropriate to keep such a talented player away from the game.
Similarly, Pujara did what he is known for. Many people criticized him for his slow batting, but I think every member of the team has their role. I am happy that these players have played their roles well. Shardul Thakur is certainly not a bowler of that class but makes good use of his experience and has proved to be a useful player for the team. His batting is a huge bonus for him. Mohammad Siraj bowled at the right spot. He has a good swinging ability and can become a quality bowler.
Finally, I will particularly praise Rahane`s captaincy. His style is different from Virat. He showed a very vicious style by putting an aggressive field amid the scarcity of resources.
The writer is a former Indian fast bowler and a Cricket analyst.