Former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar believes the Men in Blue are hitting top gear at precisely the right moment in the ICC T20 World Cup. His assessment comes ahead of India’s final group-stage fixture against the Netherlands on February 18 at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Bangar, who has closely tracked India’s campaign, pointed out the steady upward curve in performance. After convincing wins over the USA and Namibia, India delivered a statement performance against Pakistan in Colombo, sealing a dominant 61-run victory to confirm their Super Eight qualification.
According to Bangar, it wasn’t just the margin of victory that impressed him — it was the manner in which the team handled adversity. “In a tough situation, on a difficult pitch, they posted a competitive score and batted well against quality spin,” Sanjay Bangar said on ESPNcricinfo. Spin had troubled India earlier in the tournament, with wickets falling in clusters.
But against Pakistan, on a surface that offered grip and turn, the batters showed composure and adaptability. Negotiating extended spells of spin and still finishing strongly underlined a growing tactical maturity within the squad.
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Led by Suryakumar Yadav, India appear more balanced and decisive with every outing. Bangar feels that this momentum, combined with clarity in roles, suggests a side peaking at the business end of the group stage — a hallmark of successful World Cup campaigns.
Looking ahead to Ahmedabad, Bangar expects a more batting-friendly surface. The Narendra Modi Stadium traditionally offers good bounce and value for stroke play, conditions that could further free up India’s aggressive top order. While India have batted first in all their matches so far, Bangar hinted that a chase could be on the cards. Regardless of the scenario, he stressed the importance of maintaining consistency rather than experimenting recklessly.
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On team selection, Sanjay Bangar suggested a possible tactical tweak. Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh could return to the XI in place of wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav if conditions favour seam. India have already shown flexibility in their bowling combinations, rotating between three seamers and specialist spinners based on pitch demands.
Bangar also noted that squad depth remains a major strength. With pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah leading the attack and backups ready to step in seamlessly, India possess the bench strength required for a long tournament. As the Super Eight stage looms, the timing of this surge in form could prove decisive.
