ICC World Cup 2019: IND vs BAN warm-up: Positives and Negatives for India in the match

The Men in Blue on Tuesday defeated Bangladesh in the second and final warm-up game at Cardiff, finding the much-needed winning touch ahead of the World Cup. After going down against New Zealand in the first match, this win was crucial for Kohli and Co to settle down in the tournament. Here are the positives and negatives for India from this match.

Positives

The return of form for KL Rahul and MS Dhoni was the biggest positive sign for India as these two will play an important role in the batting set-up. A scintillating 108-run knock by KL Rahul at number 4 is something that every Indian fan would be cherished about.

The side has been constantly failing to deliver in the middle overs. Though yesterday, despite losing 4 wickets on the score of 102, India posted a mammoth total of 359 runs on board. Apart from KL Rahul, it was vintage MS Dhoni who played an unforgettable inning. The former Indian skipper scored fiery 113 runs in just 78 deliveries to send down a message to those who said ‘it’s over for Dhoni’. The Ranchi native sent out 7 balls out of the boundary while also notched 8 fours in his knock.

Pertinently, the wrist-spin duo also showed great intent with the ball. They shared six wickets amongst them to help India bundle out Bangladesh on 264 runs, hence earning India a 95-run victory. Kuldeep Yadav who was struggling with his form finally was able to unleash his mystery, while Yuzvendra Chahal continued his good touch.

Negatives

The misfiring of openers for the second consecutive time is something India needs to work on before the first match. Both Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan have been the main driving force for team India in the limited overs cricket. Their contribution at the top has often steered the side to triumph against strong bowling attacks.

Likewise, seamers baring Jasprit Bumrah not taking wickets is a concern for Kohli. Bhuveneshwar looked ordinary in the first match and didn’t find any wickets in the second as well. Mohammad Shami also was a bit expensive in his short spell.

Meanwhile, after this boosting win, India will be high on confidence when they face South Africa in the first match of World Cup on June 5.