The Australian dominance in World Cups, which lasted 11 years & 11 months spanning three World Cups is over. It took two back to back defeats by Asian teams to crush the morale of the defending champions. India pulled out their best all round performance in the World Cup so far to overcome the kangaroos in a closely fought encounter at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmadabad. This defeat signals the end of Ricky Ponting era as captain of the Australian side. Though he may still be able to salvage his place in the one day side thanks to his gritty knock of 104 on a tough wicket, he would not be able to fulfill his dream of his 3rd successive World Cup Victory. Ricky, under tremendous pressure to perform, let his bat do the talking and played a defiant innings of 104 to lift the team to a competitive 260. Brett Lee, also playing his last World Cup Match gave his heart out, but could not stop the Indian bandwagon. The slower bowlers let them down and India chased it down with ease in the end.
I'm one of those people who appreciate a good performance, be it from any team or player. As a cricket enthusiast, i feel for the great man. One man who has managed to even come close to Sachin in the modern game has been Ponting. Apart from an immaculate record as an individual player in ODI & Tests, he also has been a class act as the captain of Australia. Being a part of 3 World Cup winning teams and captaining the side to two of them is no ordinary feat mind you. A great competitor, a great captain, he showed his class in his final innings. Ricky, you have redeemed yourself, you can step down as captain with dignity. The Australian think tank will have a lot to ponder over though. Should they pass on the mantle to Clarke? Should they persist with Ponting in Tests? Some tough decisions are sure to be made.
The Match also signaled the end of another great cricketer, the fastest bowler in the World, Brett Lee. Such is the determination & character of this fast bowler, that even after bleeding profusely while a ball hit the corner of his eye, he came back to give his best shot for his team. He was in good touch throughout the tournament & was the highest wicket taking bowler for the Aussies with 12 wickets. Batsman would be relieved as they might not have to face any Chin Music from Lee anymore.
Come next World Cup, we will miss the aggression, the dominance & the exuberance which Ricky Ponting brings to the cricket field.
Thank you guys for all the entertainment over the years!
Farewell Mates!
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