The Cricket blog

India thrashed again in 3rd one day against SA

I wish i could focus my mind on the ashes and write about it, but the temptation to offer my comments on the recent SA-India one dayer has got to the "peace" of my mind. After having south africans for 76-6 at one stage , India let them off the hook. Thanks to a blistering knock of 100 from Justin kemp and able support from andrew hall, SA had a dream turnaround to end up with a massive 274-7 to end the innings and any hopes for India. Zaheer Khan, back in the side displayed accuracy and vigor to have the south africans in trouble with kallis, smith and bosman back to the pavilion within the first 10 overs. Wickets continue to fell with pathan and kumble joining in the party. And then walked in Justin kemp. Kemp is one of the most hard-hitting and dangerous batsmen in the world today and he amply demonstrated that in the later part of the innings. The ease with he was cloberring the bowlers to the stands was a testament of the timing and power in his strokes. At one stage it seemed that he was indeed playing with a rubber ball which kept bouncing high to clear the ropes. he, along with Hall put on a huge 113 off the last 10 overs to finish SA with 274-6. India had lost the match after almost assured victory given they had SA reeling at 76-6 at one stage.

I have noted that India is not professional and aggresive enough to close out on these important moments in the game. They should, in my opinion reflect on their  pyshcology , skills and temperament. Did we go for the kill with the right attitude ? Do we have ther killer, "never-die" instinct which is so important if we want to stand a chance to win major championships? Our attitude and mindset needs a change. More than a coach.