On other hand, India played some very good and inspirational cricket. They subjugated England in fine style. The fact that India lost 3 tosses makes this series triumph even more special. What more, India won the series with lot of constraints - India never had the first choice eleven available. Key player were ruled-out at key moments. But in time of adversity India rose up to occasion.
Virat Roars
The last time India played a test in Wankhede, Virat came out to bat in the loudest of cheer - the cheer Wankhede gave to his adopted son - Sachin Tendulkar - for one last time. It was sunset of a great era. Virat started his innings his with the cover drive. Little he know the next time, he will come back (to play a test match) at same venue - he will be greeted by the same deafening cheer. Virat led from the front, he showed the path to his juvenile team. He is a kind of player who thrives under pressure. On a wicket turning square Virat drove, cut, swept spinners with substantial ease. During the innings of 235 every decision whether to go back or to come fully forward was made with precision. If at all, there was any doubt, the transition for sure have had accomplished.
Ashwin's Guile and Jayant's growth
Just as we admire Virat, Ashwin's effort must be lauded, Ashwin never gets the incentive he deserves. Amidst us is a spinner at top of his powers - making the batsman dance to his tune. As Virat said Ashwin is 50-60% of where Indian team stands today. He yields India wickets at his own will. Also, Ashwin batting contribution throughout the series had created deep effect, as it killed England mentally. Ashwin transferring into a bona-fide allrounder is a news of great joy for India. What more incredible is that India won this series without any pitch jibes - a phenomenon that is always adhered to India's victory and Ashwin's success.
For a player playing just his 3rd test, Jayant Yadav, showed immaculate maturity especially when he partnered Virat. The shot selection and application looked much to that of a top order batsman. And with his prowess - bowling - he gave India breakthrough at vital junctures.
Cooked up England
The way England bowled it puts the quality of their spin bowling under focus. On wickets assisting spinners England have not been able to extract the juice - the turn, much to do with the way they bowled. Overall, England looks muddled. There fielding was rusty. Cook captaincy looked out of sorts. It looks, even before seeing the wicket in Mumbai they have made their minds of playing four seamers. England is yet to find their best combination. They are carrying unselectable batsman, the best county spinner is not even in the squad. Cook as captain looks full of apprehensions. The way he utilized the available resources is debatable. His captaincy career will be under immediate scanner.
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