They did, winning by five wickets. But who would have guessed that the teams would have to wait until the final day of the Super 12s to find out who would be the semifinalists? But it’s been that kind of tournament, unpredictable and uncertain, the most thrilling T20 World Cup in recent memory, complete with shocking defeats, nail-biting finishes, and some world-class cricketing skills.
The Zimbabwe game, despite a sellout crowd at the MCG, was merely a formality. They crushed Zimbabwe by 71 runs, avoiding the pressure that a must-win game would have brought, and putting in their most clinical performance of the tournament. Pakistan ensured their place in the last four moments before the game by defeating Bangladesh by five wickets. The final day of the Super 12s was supposed to be filled with tension and suspense for both India and Pakistan. It turned out to be a letdown.
Both countries, despite not being considered outright favorites to win the tournament, have grown in strength. Without Jasprit Bumrah, India’s fast bowling attack was deemed less dangerous. However, Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Hardik Pandya, and Mohammed Shami have demonstrated both bark and bite, steel and skill. Virat Kohli has regained his imperious touch; KL Rahul has roared back to form; and Rohit Sharma is getting closer to his best.
Though the final and semi finals are still a week away, fans of these subcontinental powerhouses would have already begun fantasizing about the dream match-up. Is it the World Cup of 2007 all over again? The MCG will host an India-Pakistan final. This week is going to fly by.
