Plenty to ponder

During the early 2000s, I used to dream for an Indian cricket team that played like an Australian outfit. I wanted India to possess the attributes which defined that great Aussie team; the habit of winning, never-say-die attitude, immense self-confidence and thorough professionalism. I definitely did not expect India to lose a Test series at home, just a few days after Australia did the same, and bring about a face-palm moment.

It is not right to be too harsh on the current Indian team which is clearly in the middle of a rebuilding process. But more than the defeat, what is not a pretty sight, is the manner and attitude that go with it. Without Dravid and Laxman, those two wonderful troubleshooters who worked with the knack of adept technicians and the grace of seasoned magicians to rescue India, the responsibility on bowlers is immense. Sadly, sights of wane and inexperience among pace bowlers and an alarming void in spin department are not reassuring. 

And there is the big question of Sachin Tendulkar. His very mention reminds me of this quote from The Dark Knight, "You either die a hero or live long enough to see yourself become the villain." Last year's World Cup win was perhaps the perfect hero moment for Sachin. The whole country prayed and supported a team, which, by it's own admission, won the cup for the country's greatest sportsperson of this generation. What better moment to round-off a legendary career and move on ? 

Irrespective of reputation, there is always a tolerance in team sports as to how long a player continues to occupy a spot without meaningful performances, especially when there are promising new talents waiting for opportunities. There are a lot of unanswered questions and unresolved issues, it is high time for cricket administration in India to chart-out a clear road-map and re-stabilize Test cricket.