The India-Australia series, which is all set to get underway, will mark the comeback of Yuvraj Singh, who has fought his way into the squad on the back of some excellent performances in domestic and ‘A’ cricket. While India will undoubtedly begin the series as favourites, most eyes would be centred on how Yuvraj performs. The all-rounder, who will turn 32 towards the end of the month, has seen many highs and lows during his decade-long career. Singh, who has battled cancer, will now look to resume his career from scratch.
At his peak, Yuvraj was among the most dangerous all-round performers in the world. His talent came to the fore when he played the talismanic role in India’s World Cup triumph a couple of years back. However, things have changed drastically since then. The cancer treatment he went through would have definitely taken a significant toll on his body. As a result, his fielding might not be as agile it was when it started out. But India can do with a poorer Yuvraj in the fielding department as they are better off now as opposed to 2000. It is in the batting and bowling department that India would want Yuvraj to gain as much ground as he has lost.
While on one hand Yuvraj’s progress would be watched closely, there are a few other players as well whose performances would be followed keenly keeping the future in mind. Some of the players who succeeded on the comfortable Zimbabwe tour have been retained, and they will face a tougher test even considering the fact that they will be playing at home. Like most sides, India are also looking to build a strong side for their 2015 World Cup defence. Hence, the fringe players would be keen to make an impact.
Among the players who would be followed closely include Ambati Rayudu, who has been retained in the side ahead of the more experienced but constantly failing Dinesh Karthik. Rayudu has waited for a long time to get his chance in international cricket, and would not like to let the opportunity go waste. A consistent performance against the Aussies would only enhance his chances of becoming a permanent member in the squad. Since most of the middle and lower order picks itself, Rayudu’s chances of making it to the final eleven constantly are slim at the moment though.
There is plenty of competition in the pace bowling slot with Zaheer Khan out of favour at least at present. While Ishant Sharma continues to be lucky since India do not have any other experienced fast bowler, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has quickly established himself as a leading strike bowler. The pacers for whom the series would be extremely significant include Mohammad Shami and Jaydev Unadkat, who formed a potent combination in Zimbabwe. Australia definitely will be a tougher proposition. While Vinay Kumar will also try to pitch in with bits, in the spin department Amit Mishra’s would try to replicate his magic from Zimbabwe.
--By A Cricket Analyst
