Former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar reckons the 10-wicket hammering against England in the 2022 T20 World Cup semifinals was a wake up call for the Indian team. Manjrekar believes that loss helped India in adopting a new aggressive approach and brought a much-needed change.
The cricketer-turned-commentator also highlighted that the team’s two veterans – Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli – never confessed that they helped the team lose the semis. While Kohli scored 50 runs from 40 balls, Rohit managed 27 runs off 28 balls as India could only post 168 runs on the board. The target of 169 was easily achieved by England in 16 overs, without even losing a single wicket.
Speaking to ESPN Cricinfo, Sanjay Manjrekar said, “India is completely changed as a T20 side. That was a wake-up call for India. They may not admit it. Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have never confessed that they helped India lose the semifinals, but this new India is a completely different India.”
Manjrekar also noted that England is not as potent as they were a couple of years ago.
“What’s also good for India is that England is looking a little weaker than they were a couple of years back. So that just helps India’s cause.”
On the other hand, Virat Kohli has scored only 66 runs in six matches at an average of 11 in the ongoing T20I showpiece. Manjrekar reckons Kohli’s form is a cause of concern for the team.
“Virat Kohli is a little bit of a worry because he hasn’t got the runs, but he stayed committed to this approach of taking risks and doesn’t worry about getting out. Whether he’ll continue to do that in the semifinal, because this is a guy who has taken up the responsibility on the big stage, he feels that he’s the guy who’s got to do it. Plus he’s short of runs. The thing to look for is if he’s hit a four or a six and if he picks a single, then you know that he’s batting a little differently.”
Manjrekar believes the spin-friendly Guyana pitch will assist the Indian spinners and they will hold the advantage.
“Perfect conditions for India because India have got some quality spin, they have got two left-arm spinners, and if the pitch is going to be really kind of a turner, then Jadeja as well comes to the fore.”
Manjrekar reckons England will miss the services of their talismanic all-rounder Ben Stokes.
“The best thing is the England batters won’t like a turning pitch against India. They are missing Ben Stokes. Just put Ben Stokes in this English team and you’re looking at a completely different challenge.”
India will take on England in the second semifinal at the Providence Stadium, Guyana on Thursday.
