Gautam Gambhir has become the epitome of an Indian batting line-up that has found its groove. He has made significant contributions in every innings of the series, with his 104 in the second Test the highlight so far.
Indeed, Gambhir now defines the strength of Indian cricket at the moment. One senses a new world order is approaching after years of dominance from the Australians.
Of all the star studded Indian batsmen, however, Gambhir seems to be the least loved, drawing the smallest cheer from the crowds when entering the field or scoring a boundary.
But then again, when one finds themselves in the presence of cricket icons Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman, the only thing Gambhiir can do in the end is score more runs.
So it was good to see him reach three figures yesterday morning, the second time he has done so in Test matches, with his presence in India’s line-up now a foundation to their recent success.
Despite his great showing so far, it seems Gambhir is the least of Australia’s worries.
In years gone by India struggled to find the best combination to lead into their famed middle order. Now they’ve struck a perfect balance.
Opener Virender Sehwag is in full flow at the moment and hugely popular with the fans. He has always been one batsman capable of tearing the Aussies apart.
Everything is now looking rosy for India. A little bit too rosy to say the least.
They now face a dilemma due to their great form with their problem centering around the skipper Anil Kumble.
On this evidence his services are no longer required.
Not only has spinner Amith Mishra delivered beyond expectation, Dhoni has shown all the skills required to lead the side in the Test arena and exhibited far greater ability to inspire the troops.
He goes for victory no matter what the circumstances, and against a world class opponent like Australia, this is the only way to go.
There will be tough decisions made on Kumble soon enough, but judging from Mishra and Dhoni’s capabilities, they must surely play for the remainder of this series and beyond.
If Kumble is declared fit for the third Test, it seems one of the batsmen will be left out.
But who?
How the Australians would love to have this problem of too many personnel for the job. They did at one stage.
That era though looks now to be long gone.
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