To Be Appreciated

In the calamity that struck at Eden Gardens yesterday, it is important to identify as many positives as possible. One such was the sixth wicket partnership between Yuvraj Singh and Mohammed Kaif. It is weird that while people are most eager to slam them for a run of poor scores, their good efforts today were not even acknowledged, let alone applauded.

It was on the same wicket that Sachin Tendulkar scored 2 off 15 balls and Rahul Dravid scored 6 off 33. Do not give me the excuse that the wicket had eased out. Yuvraj, in particular played along with Dravid and had to face a stern test at the start of the innings. Yet he survived that. And he and Kaif put on 81 runs in 17 overs by all means a good rate given the situation. It is another matter that Kaif got out attempting a shot he can never play well.

Also, when Dhoni came in he too found the going extremely tough. Further reinforces the fact that the wicket didn't really ease out. It was just a clear case of Yuvi and Kaif putting their heads down where the top order couldn't.

I'm quite surprised and saddened that even Yuvraj's wonderful 100 at Hyderabad didn't receive the due credit in the media and the blogosphere. It was one of the most beautiful innings in most demanding circumstances. I'm sure if Sachin or Sourav had played an innings like that their devotees would have shouted their throats hoarse in praise.

I feel confident that these two are going to play a huge role in the future of Indian cricket. Yuvraj, in particular I believe is the chosen one. I think he will in due course be India's number 4 in both forms of the game. Kaif will play the supporting role and perhaps some day go on to be captain.