New Delhi, March 5 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Atul Wassan suggests that India's prior loss to South Africa might be a “blessing in disguise” as they prepare for a critical semifinal showdown against England at the Wankhede Stadium. He believes this setback could enhance the team's readiness for the pressures of significant matches.

South Africa handed India their sole defeat by 76 runs in Ahmedabad during the Super 8s. However, they faced a heavy defeat against New Zealand in the semifinal and were subsequently eliminated from the tournament.

Wassan opines that this loss could indeed benefit India as they enter the knockout phase. “The defeat against South Africa may serve as a blessing in disguise for Team India. Such losses can mentally prepare a team for the intensity of pivotal games, allowing them to return stronger,” he remarked to IANS.

In the crucial Super 8s match versus the West Indies, India secured their place in the semifinals thanks to Sanju Samson's impressive unbeaten 97, leading to a five-wicket victory over the Windies.

Wassan commended Sanju Samson's recent form, viewing it as a positive indicator for the Indian batting lineup.

“Sanju Samson’s display in the last match was very promising. When a player of his caliber hits form at this stage, it significantly boosts the team’s morale,” he stated.

He highlighted the individual face-off between England’s leading fast bowler Jofra Archer and Samson as a crucial aspect of the upcoming match.

“The duel between Jofra Archer and Sanju Samson will be captivating. If players like Jos Buttler and Phil Salt perform well at the top of the order, it will be vital for England,”

Wassan added.

Nonetheless, he acknowledged that England appears to be a well-rounded team with numerous match-winners in their ranks. He pointed out Will Jacks as one of the standout players of the tournament thus far.

“England seems like a very balanced team. Will Jacks has emerged as a promising talent in this tournament and has been playing exceptional cricket. In comparison, England’s spin attack, featuring Adil Rashid, Richard Dawson, and Will Jacks, is currently more formidable,”

Wassan remarked.

For India, he believes that the onus will significantly fall on star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. “Bumrah is akin to a bank for India—a reliable player you can always count on. If he can dismantle the opening partnership early on, it could simplify matters for India,” he explained.

Wassan also underscored the importance of the conditions at Wankhede Stadium, mentioning that the dew factor might influence the toss decision.

“Wankhede is a relatively small ground, and the dew factor can significantly impact the game. The team that wins the toss will likely opt to bowl first,”

he elucidated.

Regarding India’s batting order, Wassan advised against putting undue pressure on young opener Abhishek Sharma, encouraging him to maintain his aggressive style.

“Abhishek Sharma should stick to his natural attacking instincts. The key is to alleviate pressure on him so he can play freely,”

he suggested.

He concluded by noting that the inclusion of Axar Patel in the lower order provides valuable depth to the Indian batting lineup. “Having Axar Patel lower in the order offers India a safety net in batting,” Wassan concluded.