The underdog tried hard and we applauded. New Zealand played with spirit and they punched above their weight, like they always do. But underdogs often have adrenalin on their side, not an arsenal. That is why they are popular, often inspire the finest literature, but that is also why they lose more often. New Zealand were the middleweight boxer fighting for the heavyweight championship of the world; they could land a few blows, could jab and sway but the knockout was beyond them.

Australia were cold and calculating, almost emotionless. And they played the big moments better. That is what Federer does, producing the great backhand on break point; that is what Woods does on the back nine hitting the greens when challengers start thinking the course is made of bunkers and water bodies. Everytime Australia were threatened, they raised their game. It wasn’t just Ponting and Lee and Hussey but Hopes taking a great catch, Hauritz batting like a veteran when 20 were needed, White looking like a seasoned number four, Paine flying to his left to catch a ball... there were many moments. Australia might be vulnerable on the odd day but over 50 overs in a championship, the world still has some catching to do.

It could be argued that the Aussies were match fit, that India and South Africa were coming off a break. Anything can be argued. Reasons are not difficult to find if the conclusion is pre-determined. The reality is that India are always slow off the blocks when coming out of a break. It suggests a deficient work ethic. Is that then a national trait? That we rarely stretch until we are pushed? It is a question, funnily, that those that demand a break in the calendar need to look at!

... contd.