The Champions Trophy has shown us some special moments and as Indian fans we have had plenty to cheer. The Indian team has been on a juggernaut and barring the blip against the Sri Lankans, they have put in professional performances. However, if there is one thing that needs to be highlighted, it is the fielding that has set the team apart. The team have raised their standards to such a high level that they can easily be called the best fielding unit in the world.
The reason for this can be traced back to the Indian tour of Australia back in 2012. That was a time when the likes of Dhoni were gunning for a better fielding unit.
Dhoni had the guts to put forth the idea that the seniors need to be rested. The likes of Gambhir, Sachin and Sehwag were not allowed to let their batting ability overshadow their otherwise average fielding. The idea was met with some resistance by them, but Dhoni believed in his mission.
What followed was a slow change in the way the Indian team approached the field. Earlier, a group of slow coaches were given a free run thanks to their talents with the ball or bat. This was not allowed anymore. Everyone was under the scanner and Dhoni was able to motivate them to push their standards.
Slowly the results started showing. The inclusions of class players such as Raina and Jadeja made a big difference to the squad. Even Rohit Sharma was emerging as a fielder of repute. Suddenly batsmen were unsure whether to push for that second run when hitherto they would be the ones applying the pressure on the fielders.
The difference started showing somewhere around 2013 when India were on a roll in all formats of the game. The inclusion and emergence of Ajinkya Rahane too made a big impression on the squad. Now, the players have their own designated positions from where they throw themselves around and help the team restrict opposition from running and taking more risks.
Far from the time that Yuvraj Singh and Mohammad Kaif were the only fielders who would at least put in an effort on the field, this Indian squad is lean, fit and ready to destroy any opposition in world cricket. The fielding coach Sridharan, Dhoni and Virat can hold their heads high and be proud of the hard working ethic that they have placed on this squad.
