Well, the acid test for Black caps begun yesterday when they met Sri Lanka in what was claimed as a very important outing for both the teams, the winner, would virtually seal their berth in Semis. New Zealand's downfall began when their captain was undone by a beauty from Vaas, yet again ! Things did not help them much, with Taylor following suit. From then on, New Zealand was staring at the inevitable. However, Styris did well to save them blushes. But I remember his previous century against Sri Lanka, a mighty 141, was also in a losing cause. In the end 219 did not look that bad, for I was hoping, if Bond made major breakthroughs earlier on, New Zealand had a chance. But it was not to be, even though Bond returned, yet again, with a miserly spell of 26 from 8 overs, it hardly hurt the Lankans, as they were more than happy to play him away. Things have changed for kiwis in just one game, as they face Proteas and Aussies in their next two matches. I would not read too much into the game against Aussies, but I do expect a win against South Africa.
England's victory against Bangladesh is one of those victories which leave unpleasant memories, a victory you will not savour, over the dinner table. It was a sour victory and in the age when run rate matters a lot, the English men played with unusual passiveness, for reasons known only to them. They required 8 runs from 60 balls and when they eventually won, they did so with 31 balls to spare. There were 3 maidens on the trot, in the process. Not that England will make it to the Semis anyway, but that does not justify their attitude. However, full credits to the English seamers and Monty for leaving Bangladesh in tatters, a feat that was not achieved by India or South Africa. There is really very little hope for England,Bangladesh and West Indies, even if any one of these teams, pull off victories in their remaining two matches. However, England has an outside chance, if they manage to beat South Africa and also if New Zealand lose both the matches. I am sure English fans are keeping their fingers crossed. But I hope that does not happen !
Whoa ! That is my 13th article and it comes on a special day, 13th the Friday................
England's victory against Bangladesh is one of those victories which leave unpleasant memories, a victory you will not savour, over the dinner table. It was a sour victory and in the age when run rate matters a lot, the English men played with unusual passiveness, for reasons known only to them. They required 8 runs from 60 balls and when they eventually won, they did so with 31 balls to spare. There were 3 maidens on the trot, in the process. Not that England will make it to the Semis anyway, but that does not justify their attitude. However, full credits to the English seamers and Monty for leaving Bangladesh in tatters, a feat that was not achieved by India or South Africa. There is really very little hope for England,Bangladesh and West Indies, even if any one of these teams, pull off victories in their remaining two matches. However, England has an outside chance, if they manage to beat South Africa and also if New Zealand lose both the matches. I am sure English fans are keeping their fingers crossed. But I hope that does not happen !
Whoa ! That is my 13th article and it comes on a special day, 13th the Friday................
3 comments:
ahh an omen... 13th article on friday the 13th........... in the u.k friday the 13th is bad bad luck!!! not a good day at all!!!! i heard in the states friday the 13th was a good luck day but i'm not sure.....
p.s view my blog! :) i've added more stuff! the inspiration just keeps coming....... :D
COME ON SANKLOCK WHERE IS UR NEXT ARTICLE!?!?!
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