India makes history again by winning the ICC World Cup cricket trophy 2011 on 2nd April at Mumbai chasing a formidable total in a convincing manner by six wickets and eight balls to spare . While it is the result of great team work backed by expert coaching and training for last 18 months , what stood out on the ground was the superb captaincy and leadership by Mahinder Singh Dhoni -the Captain Cool against tremendous pressure of losing both Shewag and Tendulkar early during the run chase followed by the loss of Kohli’s wicket when the innings was shaping up well with Gautam playing a lead role in a great partnership .
Everyone expected Yuvraj to come in and take control but Dhoni thought otherwise . In spite of his indifferent batting performance so far , he took the gamble of upgrading himself in the batting order and brought the innings to a winning streak in spite of losing Gambhir also mid way with Yuvraj joining him later and giving able support .
Dhoni’s decision showed real class in that he took the responsibility on his own shoulders , knowing fully well that he had to deal with the twin threats of Malinga and Muralidharan and above all prove himself right to his critics and all the spectators world wide watching this game . This was a classic example of ” Leading from the edge ” with no safety net at all if there is a free fall in the shape of wickets . Dhoni’s confidence in himself and his team payed off at the end to a glorious win for India .
It was a privilege to watch Dhoni leading India through three consecutive cliff hanger matches in the quarter , semi and finals of the world cup 2011 to clinch the coveted trophy . Great performance by Tendulkar , Yuvraj , Zahir and others during the run up to the finals.
This has made my day. I wish all potsings were this good.
Thank you.