Defending World Champions India are set to face the hosts Australia in the 2nd semi final at the historic Sydney Cricket Ground. Though the home advantage lies with Australia, former England captain Michael Vaughan believes that the clash between the two teams is evenly matched in terms of skill and quality.

Speaking at a media conference at the Sydney ferry wharf, Vaughan said that the distinguishing factor between the sides is the “tried and tested captaincy” of the Indian skipper. The Indian skipper’s particular experience of “been there done that” in a World Cup winning cause gives India a distinctive edge ahead of the key encounter. The Ashes winning captain was quoted saying:

India had a dismal run in the ODIs leading to the World Cup, but there has been a sea change in the team’s attitude in Cricket’s biggest party. Vaughan credits MS Dhoni for being the chief architect of infusing this positive belief among the Indian squad. When it comes to choosing between the two semi-finalists, it could be the “Remarkable Dhoni” factor that could prove decisive. He has proved time and again in the past that he relishes the big match pressure and can deliver the goods when it matters the most.

The Yorkshire batsman was also all praise for Ajinkya Rahane. In the batting line ups which can match each other batsman per batsman, the quietly understated Rahane is carving a niche for himself.

Vaughan also picked up the explosive Glenn Maxwell as the man who could wreck India’s chances very drastically at the SCG.

Talking of match strategies, Vaughan is of the opinion that the first few overs could set the tone for the entire match. He further added

Vaughan believes that it would be futile to target specific players like Virat Kohli as he stated - “If you single out one, you would be then struggling with the other 10. India have got wonderful talent right down from 1 to 11."

But the 40 year old does believe that it will be intense when the two teams are on the Cricket field.

It isn’t going to be quiet and I like to see competitive edge" and a “bit of confrontation. A little bit of sledging, banter is okay. I am sure Indians will give it back in plenty. They are not going to be quiet. Virat and company, will give it back and that’s good for the game,” he concluded.

0 votes