What a day for Indian sports fans both in the more popular Cricket and less popular Tennis. Two of my most favorite stars have lived up to expectations and delivered handsomly.
Mohammed Kaif
I have always been a big fan of Kaif as I believe that he is grooming up to be India's future captain. From his debut against England in its home turf Kanpur in 2002 till his magnificent 87* against England in the Natwest Trophy final he has always shown that temperament for succeeding at the International level and consequently the calibre to lead team India in the future. Unfortunately, he never got any chance to prove his game while playing at number 6 for most of his ODI career. Fortunately, with absence of Sachin due to knee-bone injury Kaif got a chance and boy he did capitalize on that. In the three innings he has played at number 3 his average was 44 and with this 102 not out its going to soar. This inning is a stamping proof that Kaif is well suited for that crucial number 3 spot. His fielding, catching and running between the wickets is sharp and at the same time exemplary. With youthful exuberance of Yuvraj Singh, M.S. Dhoni, J.P.Yadav, Pathan and the experience of Dravid, Ganguly and Sachin this Indian unit is indeed a force of reckoning. This indeed is the dawning of a new era of Indian cricket. Kudos to the Indian team for pulling of a spectacular win - the largest chase at the Harare Sports Club cricket ground. Best of luck for the Finals.Sania Mirza
A muslim girl from a humble background becoming tennis sensation. Its not just about the persona but performance too. Imagine the only Indian woman tennis player to reach 4th round of US Open and a chance to beat World's number 1 Maria Sharapova. No doubt this is going to be the most glamourous match of the tournament.Already her popularity is compared to Sachin and she is just 18 years old. She has occupied prime-time on US channels and indeed a media darling. Her sponsorship endorsements have crossed 1 million pounds and still counting. She is not a great athlete, her first serve percentage is below par, her footwork is horrrible but what matters is how hard u hit the ball and she does hit dem hard.With her attitude and charisma she is going to be a rising star and be a role model for numerous burgeoning women athletes in India. Bestest of luck and I am waiting to see her knock out Sharapova :P.
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