The Champions Trophy has broken many myths about the untouchable position of England cricket team.
Their dominance and the strength, especially in their batting line-up, had somehow created a fear for them among others.
The way Alastair Cook, Ian Bell, Jonathan Trott, Ravi Bopara, Eoin Morgan and Joe Root played against India was not up to scratch.
A few of my friends can opine that the weather and pitch played an important role in making it difficult for English batsmen in the final.
Also, they may say that the Indians were luckily able to restrict them within a reasonable limit, and this does not prove the frailties of England’s batting.
However, we must remember that England were in a very strong position.
They needed 20 runs from 15 balls, with six wickets standing. But, they choked under pressure.
From the very beginning, England were taking it for granted that they were unbeatable.
So much so, that I had read somewhere that their prime focus was Ashes, and Champions Trophy was just a warm up tournament, which they would easily win at home.
Another notable factor overlooked by many is that England got a comparatively easier group in the tournament. And yet, they lost a group match. This was certainly unexpected from a team boasting a good recent home record, as well as in form players.
Their bowling attack was also not invincible, as previously thought. Sri Lanka thrashed them to all parts in the group game, and India also hit them around in the latter stages of their innings in the final. Inconsistencies shown by Broad and Bresnan certainly do raise questions.
Indians, who are not accustomed to playing on English pitches, played fairly well here.
In comparison, Australians are in a much better position as far as exposure to bouncy pitches is concerned. The Aussies can certainly do it!
If the Aussies can strengthen themselves and perform well, I truly believe that they have a chance in the Ashes.
England has not quite lived up to the mark and inconsistencies shown by certain players can easily be exploited.
Less experienced players in the Australian squad need to step up. It’s as simple as that.
The Ed Cowans, Nathan Lyons and the Phil Hughes are the key ones who need to perform.
They have to show their mettle and raise their game in the Ashes. The new coach Darren Lehmann also seems to be determined to gel the squad together.
We do not expect miracles, but Australia can certainly compete with England in the Ashes. This Champions Trophy has given a lesson to all, that anything is possible.
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