Chapter 80: Second Innings - Ind vs Pak
Our innings concluded with a robust total of 178 runs in 20 overs. Yuvraj and Raina remained unbeaten and made significant contributions to the final score.
Our entire team, including the reserve players, gathered in the room where our bowling coach was ready to devise an effective bowling strategy, aiming for a successful win in the game.
The room remained mostly silent, with the only sound being some players quietly chewing their food.
"Everyone, please take your seats. Now that the rain has disrupted our initial strategy, we need to develop a new plan to throw Pakistan off their game," the coach said, glancing around at us, signalling for anyone to contribute.
I felt a bit surprised since our score was quite substantial at that moment. Chasing such a score on a somewhat wet ground isn't easy for any team. I wondered, what change in strategy is needed? Just go out and bowl your overs, I thought, but I remained silent.
When no one volunteered to speak, the coach began explaining how the wet ground would impact our game, particularly in terms of how it would alter the batting conditions for the opposing team.
"Listen up, guys," the coach began, his voice resonating with authority. "We're facing wet conditions now, which presents us with an opportunity to dominate through our bowling strategy."
He paced slowly in front of the players, each nodding in understanding. "Remember, the wet ground increases friction, causing the ball to slow down more upon impact. Let's turn this to our advantage. Concentrate on your line and length, and make the batsmen play on the front foot."
The team members exchanged glances as the coach continued, "Spinners, the ball won't turn much in these conditions, but that's where your skill comes into play. Focus on your accuracy and bowl a tighter line. Pacers, the key is in your seam position and maintaining a consistent line and length. Be prepared for the ball to skid through due to the wet conditions."
He paused, making sure his message was resonating with the seasoned players. "Fielding will be crucial today. The ball will be heavier and might not travel as far or as quickly. Stay alert for quick singles. And remember, the wet ball can be slippery, so make sure to keep your throws low and direct."
"Also," the coach added, with a tactical edge in his voice, "vary your pace. A slower ball might stick in the pitch, potentially leading to a mistake by the batsman. Let's exploit that possibility."
He surveyed the team, noting each player exuding quiet confidence, poised to adapt their extensive experience to the day's conditions. "We're a skilled team, and these conditions are just another challenge for us to conquer. Stay focused, play smart, and let's turn this situation to our advantage."
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The break concluded and our team headed out onto the field. We gathered together in a huddle, where the captain outlined our roles for the game.
The roar of the crowd lingered in my ears as I transitioned from being a batsman to a bowler. The rush of adrenaline from batting gradually gave way to the focused calm necessary for bowling. Although our score of 178 was solid, in cricket, no total is ever completely secure. As I stepped onto the field, the slightly damp pitch under the stadium lights appeared to be an ally to my style of bowling.
"While the ground conditions have changed, it doesn't diminish the importance of absolute accuracy. We have more than enough bowlers, and with you five pacers, I don't think we need any more. However, don't let overconfidence take over, and remember to trust in your teammates.
Finally, don't panic. Of course, they will score runs; they have bats in their hands. Our objective is to take quick wickets during the powerplay. Just bowl with precision and let your fielders do their part." Dhoni's pep talk concluded, and we were primed to start the game with a bang.
The umpires approached Dhoni with a box full of new white balls for him to select the new ball from. Dhoni carefully examined several balls and chose the one that felt best to him. After making his selection, he quickly moved towards me and tossed the ball in my direction.
"Do you want to bowl the first over? I think it would be great to have our fastest bowler start the game," Dhoni said, his tone slightly uncertain, as he considered whether I, a part-time bowler, was ready to take on the responsibility of bowling the very first over in such a significant tournament.
"You're the captain, Mahi Bhai. You don't need to ask; just hand me the ball and tell me to do it. I'm always ready, whether it's with bat or ball. Besides, doesn't Pakistan boast about their fast bowlers and how we don't have much to counter that? That only fuels my determination even more." I grinned playfully, and Dhoni also smiled, amused by my enthusiasm.
"Good, now go out there and do what you do best. I'll always be right behind the stumps supporting you," Dhoni said, giving my shoulder a reassuring pat. Energised by his confidence in me, I was ready to bowl my first over.
Irfan Pathan was positioned at mid-on and Harbhajan Singh at third man, while the rest of the players were inside the circle. There was still some time remaining before the official start of the second innings.
"Bitto Bhaiya, here," I called out to Irfan Pathan, as he was the nearest player to me from my run-up start. I tossed the ball directly to him to warm up my shoulders before the start of the innings, being careful not to let the ball touch the ground to avoid getting it wet.
Catching the ball smoothly, Irfan Pathan threw it back to me. "Where do you think I should focus my attack? I'm thinking of aiming for an edge if possible," I asked, seeking advice from my senior. I realized I had been relying heavily on skill and hadn't put as much thought into strategy.
"Hmm, if I were in your shoes, I wouldn't aim for edges right from the start. In a Test match, definitely, but here the playing style will be different. They might either leave the ball or play it aggressively. I don't think anyone will try to defend much, given the format," Irfan Pathan shared his insights, which were valuable. I felt grateful for the conversation. His advice helped me avoid what could have been a strategic misstep.
"You're right, I guess. Thank you, Bitto Bhaiya. I owe you one," I said, smiling in appreciation towards him. With that, I concluded my warm-up, feeling more confident about my approach.
"Don't worry, you won't owe it for long. I'll find a way for you to return the favour after the match," Irfan replied with a chuckle, giving me a thumbs up just as the umpire signalled the start of the innings.
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