Bangalore, Sep 16 (IANS) The 77-run win by Yuvraj Singh-led India A over West Indies A in the first of the three unofficial ODIs Sunday, only underlined the distance between the two teams in terms of class and ability, and there was little to suggest that Tuesday’s second game of the series here will throw up anything new.
With Yuvraj, after some rigorous fitness regime in France, thumping his return to competitive cricket after a six-month absence from international engagements and Yusuf Khan, the other player seeking to get back into the National team in top form, India A would again begin as the overwhelming favourites.
The West Indians barely looked the part or even capable of being pace with the home team in Sunday’s game and in the light of their performance, the visitors face an uphill task while facing a test of character.
Skipper Kieran Powell might have rued his decision to bowl first after winning the toss, but few could blame him given the weather conditions. A bit of moisture in the air might have persuaded Powell that his seamers would cut through, but Yuvraj and Yusuf made nonsense of the bowling that initially threatened by taking two early wickets.
Given the fact that more rains are forecast this week in continuation of the rather wet spell in the city, the possibility of another truncated game cannot be ruled out.
However, from India’s perspective, Yuvraj’s return to form as also Yusuf rediscovering his big-hitting prowess that was conspicuously missing during this year’s IPL, are welcome signs ahead of a busy international season.
For all that, the vicissitudes of a one-day game could well author a few surprises in the coming days and that should keep the interest alive in the series, though on evidence of Sunday’s game, Yuvraj’s Indians appear set to wrap it up on the morrow.