Indians steer clear of Head’s headache

Beleaguered Indians found themselves exuberant on Monday following a historic victory in the T20 World Cup over Australia, a triumph that infused a rare wave of euphoria throughout the nation. "With every ball, every run, every boundary, every wicket, I wasn't able to hold my emotions," remarked Akash Sen, a university student. "It was late at night, but I was jumping, screaming, I was not able to contain myself," the 20-year-old recounted to Mid-Day.

The euphoria stemmed from India capitalising on Australia's subpar bowling performance to amass 205-5 in their innings - a historic joint-highest total against the Yellow Army in a T20 World Cup game, and subsequently bowling out the 2023 champions for 187.

"We had endured a lot last year, and I couldn't stop my tears," expressed Sen.

In Kolkata's Bhowanipore, approximately 300 passionate cricket enthusiasts congregated to revel in the aftermath, illuminated by fireworks early on Tuesday morning. "Such moments are special for everyone, now hopefully we get to win the title this year," reflected 18-year-old Arpan Maiti. "Beating the mighty Australia is not a trivial achievement."

No, it was no trivial achievement for India. No sooner had Rohit Sharma called it ‘satisfying' at the post-match press conference than the applause began to fill the room. The India captain's brilliant innings, where he batted just 41 balls, featuring seven fours and eight sixes, formed the bedrock of a total score of 205-5 after losing the toss. Australia were 24 runs short only, thanks to left-arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh whose figures of 3-37 did not let anything happen otherwise.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan clinched a thrilling eight-run victory over Bangladesh to advance to the semi-finals, a result that also saw Australia exit the tournament. Despite posting a modest 115-5 after choosing to bat, Afghanistan's bowlers held their nerve, dismissing Bangladesh for 105 with only seven balls remaining in a tense finish. Afghanistan's next challenge will be against South Africa in the semi-finals, while England and India will square off in the other semi-final clash.

India will now meet defending champions England in the semi-final on Thursday in Guyana. The jubilation after India put to rest the dreading memories of last year's World Cup final underscores the resilience and passion that permeates Indian fans. The victory over Australia resonates deeply within the hearts of Indians more than against any other team, symbolising a triumph of spirit and determination against formidable odds.

"We know the opposition and the threat they bring. As a team, we did well and kept doing the things we needed to do. Gives us good confidence as a team. 200 is a good score but when you are playing here with wind being a big factor, anything can happen. But I think we used the conditions well, and it was about individuals doing their job," said Rohit.

Australia never gave up until the death overs and that's probably what makes them unbeatable on most occasions. Facing the prospect of an early elimination from the tournament, the side demonstrated their renowned resilience during the chase, led by captain Mitchell Marsh (37 off 28), who returned to form, and Travis Head (76 off 43), India's formidable adversary from the previous year's ODI World Cup, who delivered a performance that will be remembered for ages.