Instead of Lanka in its present mess, it would interest me how the rising power of India would match up to the best in days to come. India are approaching basics, as Australians do and that is to attack at all costs. The aggression is being backed with good skills.

Presently, the Indians have managed to unnerve the Sri Lankans, made them blink. If they could do it to a Glenn Mcgrath or Brett Lee, Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist, cricket as a sport will go a notch higher. Now, even fielding does not look their soft spot.

In months to come, India could bridge the gap even more rapidly. Greg Chappell has practically built alternative for every spot. Instead of 11, India now have 22 players to choose from. As I hear names of V R V Singh and Piyush Chawla, it seems there is no let-up in experiments yet.

Interestingly, Australians are not doing the same. The nucleus of their side is still the same old faces. These men have been irrepressible gladiators but already in their 30s. If in two years time they lose their edge, Australia could have a problem on hand.

The new faces we see in their side from time to time have not looked exceptional.

Still, I would have preferred if India had cushioned their fast bowling department better in the Rajkot game. Instead of both Rudra Pratap Singh and Shreesanth playing, I would have opted for one, buffering them with Irfan Pathan and Ajit Agarkar.

It can be dangerous if you bring a callow youth to an adults' fiesta, unattended. A mauling could scar him for life. Not that I did not like the look of these two young men. For the second game running, R P Singh with his high arm action has managed lift from most docile strips.