Gambhir, Kohli running for the captaincy after Dhoni

Having won the series India can afford to make some changes in its playing eleven. Normally the best and strongest eleven should play, but since it is going to be a long season and there could be some injuries, it makes sense to give some fringe players a go and are how they shape up. The main area of concern has been the bowling particularly in the death overs and that aspect needs cover more than any other.

The batting has held well with both Gambhir and Kohli standing up to be counted. Both are in the running for the captaincy after Dhoni, though Kohli has age on his side: Gambhir showed his leadership skills by leading a multi country franchise to a stupendous win in the IPL. Sometimes it is good to have such rivalry as long as it does not come in the way of the teams aims. Both are also aware and articulate and Indian cricket is blessed to have such fine players and leaders in the squad.

Not that Mahendra Singh Dhoni is going anywhere soon, but it's the Damocles sword of suspension for slow over rate that hangs over him and may necessitate a replacement skipper. Manoj Tiwary was given a go and he showed his usefulness with the ball by getting 4 wickets.

The other worry for the Indians is the continued failure of Rohit Sharma. One of the noticeable things in India tours is the long rope given to players and while that is being fair to one, it could be demoralizing for the other, who is expecting a break, but not getting it. Not giving a player the opportunity when he is ready for it is a sure way of destroying his confidence.

When a team becomes like an exclusive club then it is the fastest way down and the main reason for dissent within the team. Sharma is a proven performer so he needs to be given all the help he needs and at the same time he needs to be made aware that he is not guaranteed a place simply on his past performance.

India packed its team with batsmen, who could bowl and that gives them depth in their batting especially on flat pitches where the regular bowlers are going to be given a pasting anyway. That tactic can work when chasing a score, but not while defending so it should be horses for courses. It has worked in this series, but may not in the next. India of course are playing mainly at home this season, but its think tank must show flexibility and be prepared to change approach and tactics as and when needed.