India's youngsters have played with relish

Nothing has been more enjoyable in this fortnight of puddles and first serves than the sight of dashing young Indian cricketers taking their chance in front of skeptical Western eyes. Indians are supposed to be all at sea in these sort of conditions, rapidly losing heart and yearning for the tuc-tucs and curries of home. So far the younger chaps have played with a relish that indicates a willingness to take on life in all its aspects. Certainly, India has started well, not a bad effort after a long tour of the Caribbean. Cricketers are starting to live like American sportsmen with their incredible commitments -- except that the yanks only play at home as no one else plays their favourite games.

Virender Sehwag caught the eye at Lord's. Just because Sehwag was unjustly treated a few months ago there is no need to imagine that he is a saint. Nor are a few innings enough to prove that a fellow can really play. On the other hand, class can be seen in a couple of strokes and there is no doubt that this young fellow has been blessed with lots of ability. The way he took to the bowling and the range and power of his stroke-play nonplussed an England team hoping that its total might prove sufficient despite the lower order slip as the ball swung around. Down Under, the white ball is changed after 40 overs or so as it becomes soft and dark (unlike the Aussies, who only become dark)

Sehwag batted with such panache that presently England knew it faced a formidable opponent. Of course, comparisons with Sachin are ridiculous, because Tendulkar has runs on the board whereas Sehwag's exist mostly in the mind.

India is right to keep these fellows apart. It is never wise to put too many eggs in one basket. Balance is needed in the batting order besides which Sachin's experience will be needed down the order. This will help Sachin towards the new maturity that is required whilst at the same time giving the youngster his head. It is not politic to impose restraints on the rising fellows. Rather let them find their way without worrying too much about the implications of every mistake. There will be plenty of time for introspection later, as captains and coaches and all the king's men have their say.

Sehwag has the instincts of youth and the licence granted only to those upon whom the gods and intelligent leaders have smiled. Incidentally, the spirit shown by this Indian side reflects well on a captain, who only deserves about half the stick he gets. The gang raised against Sourav should take a look at itself.

Yuvraj Singh also batted fearlessly at Lord's to confirm that he too has the temperament and ability to succeed in this company. Alongside Rahul Dravid, he took the team to victory in a partnership that must have given confidence to both batsmen and the entire team. Yuvraj has taken some time to find his feet after bursting on to the scene a few seasons ago. It is never easy for a previously obscure young man to suddenly find himself a household name. Truly those whom the gods wish to destroy they first call promising. Happily. Yuvraj has settled down and his career proper begins on this tour. A couple of innings in 50-over matches are only a small part of the story; it is the Tests that really count for they are the truest measure of a player

Part of the miracle of Sachin is the way in which he has handled fame, fortune and the pressures that come with the discovery of greatness in sport. It is not just his technique that the youngsters should copy.

Also the older hands will be used to all this fuss about the new champions. Indeed, they will be pleased about it as it takes the spotlight away from them. Meanwhile, they will go about their business; Sachin scoring runs at the Oval and Rahul batting superbly in the decisive partnership in the encouraging first match against England.

Now the Indians will be hoping that their bowlers also rise to the challenge for they will be needed in the Tests as well. Zaheer is now the senior pace bowler and much will depend on the support given to him. England has not seen much of these newcomers and judgement will be reserved.

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Batting is India's best hope
England look formidable

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