The match Sri Lanka vs India at Leeds matters most to India now than their match against England. India was happy to lose against England to regroup and play better against Bangladesh. Their last league stage match might see them at the top of the table if they beat Sri Lanka. Other match between Australia and South Africa will also be played today as the 45th world cup game.
Indians need a desperate win to test themselves capable of playing the final. Hope they might not be overconfident for the cause to impress the Indian fans and bring glory to India. It’s better Virat Kohli’s team settles well with the bowling attack that India have in abundance of talents. Mohammed Shami is highly skillful and wicket taking bowler and unlike Jasprit Bumrah. The latter bowls tidy line and length and concedes few runs per over but unable to take wickets.
As per the batting department is concerned India is troubled with KL Rahul’s tentativeness. Middle order also gets exposed early if Rohit Sharma gets out early and that can happen if he never gets chances.
Kohli always tries to play his natural game by assessing the pitch for about couple of overs. He cannot find free stroke play in his batting style in England, and he needs to understand that. Indian captain always tries to play a match winning innings and fails. The approach should be his role as a sheet anchor to allow big hitters play around him. India have dominated their world cup campaign against not fighting teams, which’s a worry.
Weather looks good for the Sri Lanka vs India match, which is the 44th match to be played at Leeds.
Khalid M Raza
