Well, it is not possible that any given encounter of arch rival India and Pakistan does not generate a certain level of thrill and excitement. This is precisely what happened in Adelaide today where Team India registered their first but crucial victory over Pakistan. No one will claim that it was a smooth ride for India but more than the need to move forward in the ladder to cement their position, it was imperative for India to win this psychological war.
After losing Rohit Sharma early on his personal score of 15, Team India did manage to establish a record partnership of 129 runs between Kohli and Dhawan for the second wicket. Thereafter, Dhawan was out for 73 runs. Suresh Raina joined in and at first it appeared that given the chances of run-out and catches, their rhythm was missing.
But gradually Kohli and Raina held the innings together. Although the commentators were saying that anything less than 350 will not be safe for team India but there were many, including BBC who were of the opinion that a figure of 380 is needed to secure a victory.
However, Virat Kohli did manage to score his 100 and apparently this achievement prompted Raina to accelerate his personal run rate. Anyway when Kohli went back at his individual score of 107, Raina tried hard to keep the momentum going. But after Raina’s departure after scoring a vital 74, Team India collapsed and despite best efforts, the final score remained not even competitive at 300 for 7.
In reply, Pakistan looked pretty comfortable as the target looked achievable but they lost an early wicket. Thereafter, the Indian bowlers could not reflect any edge and the match was seen tilting towards Pakistan. But then the wickets started falling after frequent intervals. But the turning point in favor of India arose when captain Dhoni instantly demanded review of a decision of a caught behind appeal against Maqsood, which was given in favor of India.
Thereafter, Shahid Afridi did try to balance the match along with Misbah at other end but by that time the Indian bowlers had gained their confidence and the bowling became visibly tight with a few maiden overs. This puts pressure back on Pakistan who earlier looked confident of their smooth victory. Pakistan were bowled out for 224 and India maintained their perfect win record against Pakistan in the world cup.
In the end, India wrapped up a win and this will give them a confidence going forward but this is just a battle won, the War for the World Cup 2015 is still on.