They were criticized. They were demeaned. They were outplayed. However, that did not signify their demise. Today they stand tall amidst a crowd of gentlemen. Time passed, players matured and today is seems like they are back at the top and stronger than ever. It’s where they belong. The Australian Cricket Team are at their pinnacle, once again.
A team, I believe, that can say confidently and proudly that they will make it to the World Cup Final 2015 are the Aussies. As outsiders, we tend to overlook many important statistics and we keep criticising them as if they have committed a crime. Why do I say that they have the potential to make it to the title clash? Lets analyse their squad.
They may have submitted their likely squad of thirty and their likely squad of twelve for the World Cup, but this, I feel, is how the team will be set up.
The top order of the Australians is rock solid. When one looks at a bowler bowling at Chris Gayle or a batsman facing Dale Steyn, the fear can be seen in his eyes. Sadly, little is spoken about David Warner—a “Man of Steel” and a fearless swatter of the cricket ball. His presence at the top of the scoreboard should keep it ticking and fast. Shane Watson should ideally open with Warner. As a person who redefines consistency, he can be that chap who will step out and put up some big scores.
At number three, the big-hitting Glen Maxwell finds his place, in my side at least. His cameos in the IPL and against the bowlers of the Subcontinent should make him an ideal choice for the number three slot. Maybe an over or two of spin won’t hurt. Clarke’s injury may be of concern, but he should be fit before the World Cup starts bereft of his statements in the media yesterday, he cements his place at four.
Steven Smith invariably finds his place at five; he can provide a classic sucker punch if the top order fails to score. With his capability to deceive batsmen with the flippers, the all-rounder will be the man to look out for. Miller at six will give Australia depth in their batting. Along with Maxwell, he destroyed every other team in the IPL. His tactics and timed slogs still haunt every bowler. Wade without doubt will be at number seven. The cool-minded wicket keeper will be crucial in batting with the lower order.
However, Australia will have to decide on whether to go with the three seamers and one spinner combination, especially after Nathan Lyon’s performance against India, meaning that the Aussies’ confidence in playing a spinner like Xavier Doherty may have taken a hit. Mitchell Marsh with his seemingly convincing willow and pace will be at eight; and Mitchell Johnson and Doherty will strike fear in the minds of batsmen. Johnson, with his deadly bouncers, can seal a match on his own. Regardless of who Australia pick as the eleventh man, the team looks perfect and complete with a good share of all rounders, bowlers and batsmen.
The future looks bright for the Australian Cricket Team.
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