The Indian team, captained by Rohit Sharma, came to Australia a few weeks ago to evaluate the ground before the Super 12 phases of the competition. Both sides will need to execute their strategies flawlessly at the Melbourne Cricket Ground because of the differing weather, pitch conditions, and stadium dynamics from those in India.
Former Australia cricketer Tom Moody believes India’s batting-heavy team would need to be at their best against a quality Pakistan bowling lineup before the mother of all fights. He also counseled the Indian hitters to be alert rather than conservative in their approach.
Speaking on the match-up between the two sides on the Star Sports program “Game Plan,” Moody stated, “I believe it’s an exciting fight because, to me, India is a batting-strong side whereas I think Pakistan is a bowling-strong side. India’s ability to bat against a potent new ball assault will thus be a true struggle in my opinion. If they manage to get beyond that, I see India dominating the match.
But in the first six overs is where they must manage. Now that we are aware of the T20 format and the Power Play, we also understand the need of managing those factors properly if we want to start out well. I’m not suggesting you should be conservative, but you should be on the lookout.”
Moody, who is currently Sri Lanka Cricket’s Director of Cricket, also gave both sides some sage advice about how to conduct themselves when playing at the MCG on a particular day. “One aspect of the pitch, in my opinion, has to be considered. The Gabba’s pitch has a lot of bounce to it. Will the MCG experience the same thing?
I wouldn’t assume that it will be exactly like The Gabba. The large boundaries are another factor to consider. Yes, the MCG will have substantial limits; we are aware of this. The short ball and the usage of that length, particularly a hard length with a shift in tempo into that length, are the keys to bowling at the MCG because of the size of the stadium. Therefore, I’m confident that both teams are well aware of the tactical play to be made with the ball in those top-end overs, especially in those defensive overs, Moody continued.
The 57-year-old also selected the three pacers in India’s starting eleven for the high-profile match and supported veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, who stood out against Australia in the warm-up game.
“I would choose Shami. I’d just rely on his knowledge. The first two are undoubtedly Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Arshdeep. Simply put, in huge events, I believe you should support big names. He is a significant player with a wealth of knowledge” Moody Concluded.
