Why Does India Play Numerous Cricket Matches with West Indies and Sri Lanka?
The question arises often: why does the Indian cricket team play so many matches against West Indies and Sri Lanka? The trend has been quite pronounced over the past few years, with India frequently engaging these teams in various formats. This article aims to explore the reasons behind this decision, dispelling common misconceptions along the way.
Frequency of Play Against Australia
There is a perception that India plays against West Indies and Sri Lanka due to inconsistency in their performance compared to teams like Australia. However, to fully understand this query, let's examine India's tour schedule since 2007. One notable fact is that India has played one series against Australia each year since 2007. Even in the current year, Australia is touring India for a One Day International (ODI) series. This indicates that Australia is the only team against which India has played frequently, yet the Aussies are known for being a formidable opponent. Therefore, we cannot conclusively say that India is playing predominantly weaker teams.
Recent Performances Against West Indies and Sri Lanka
Let's delve deeper into the recent series between India and West Indies. Despite the ongoing debate, the West Indies team recently demonstrated commendable skill and fight during this series. This performance highlights that the West Indies are not a weak team, especially in the T20 format.
Similarly, the series against Sri Lanka reinforced the notion that even when India plays against Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka provides a tough challenge. The Indian team is currently playing against Australia, a strong team, followed by New Zealand. These upcoming matches showcase that no team can be deemed weaker on their given day.
Agreements and Tour Scheduling
The frequency of these matches can be attributed to agreements laid between the respective cricket boards. For instance, the right after the World Cup in 2019, India toured West Indies in August and September, and then the West Indies toured India recently. Such scheduling can be seen as part of a broader agreement to ensure that teams play each other more frequently.
Moreover, the idea of imprinting matches is beneficial for the growth of the sport. Playing in various conditions and formats allows teams to improve and gain valuable experience. This strategic approach helps maintain a healthy competition and ensures that no team gets overconfident or complacent.
Upcoming Series and Performance Insights
Looking ahead, India will face Australia and New Zealand in upcoming series. These teams are undoubtedly strong, and the matches are expected to be exciting. It's important to note that the T20 ranking does not encompass the entire scope of a team's strength. Performance in different formats, conditions, and against different opponents paints a more accurate picture of a team's abilities.
In conclusion, India's frequent matches with West Indies and Sri Lanka are not due to a lack of stronger teams but are driven by strategic agreements and the desire to enhance the competitive landscape of cricket. These matches offer valuable experience and contribute to the overall growth of the sport.