Round and round the Indian cricket bush

"More than enough has been said before a series between a side that effectively finished seventh in the World Cup and one that exited in the first round itself. It's now time for action."

- Siddharth Monga on Cricinfo

Imagine India had won the World Cup! Everyone would have been crying hoarse over this series against Bangladesh then, a less than mediocre series in the heat of May, and too soon after the triumph. Fortunately for BCCI, there ain't no such crisis! Though there is one of a different kind - and that one has stung harder. So, can the now officially declared divided Indian team take on Bangladesh? What can be India's gains from this series? Even if they do win, as they are once again expected to be, there can't be much reason for rejoicing. Indian cricket's only gains would be were a youngster or two to shine, and show some hope for the future. But even before the first ball is bowled in this India-Bangladesh series, the brightest hope we had has already been frittered away. Manoj Tewari, definitely the most exciting of the selections, has not even made it to the XII. It's back to square one, with the same old questions - will Sehwag open or not? Will Dinesh Mongia make it to the final XI? For god's sake, when are we going to move ahead of this mess.

And, who is going to be the first Vice-captain in the world to be appointed by the touring committee?! That's the only interesting question i am looking forward to seeing answered tomorrow morning. I hope Dravid-Shastri-Prasad-Robin don't chicken out.