It was a cruel way for our tournament to effectively end. Rained out in India is not the norm but it was fairly clear all day that we were going to struggle to get a game in. Although we did manage 8 overs of cricket the heavy rain returned and our World Cup was over.
In fairness to Bangladesh, they came out firing and looked on song and there’s no doubt it would have been a big total to chase in the reduced 12 over game.
I feel we looked a bit nervous and rushed in the field. It looked like we were trying too hard rather than relaxing into the performance. This can easily happen in such an important game and we knew we had to win or we were gone.
It’s a sad way to be eliminated but we all know that the Oman defeat has proven costly in this campaign. A solid win against Oman and we would be sitting top of the table going into last game against the Dutch.
A big thank you to all of the supporters in Dharamasala and around the world who were #BackingGreen today! pic.twitter.com/7nnRFYsJ1u
— Cricket Ireland (@Irelandcricket) March 11, 2016
As it is, we have one game to play and we have to lift ourselves. Holland have had the wood over us in recent times in this format so we know they’re a good side but there’s a certain element of payback due.
We know them very well as a team but I can’t stress enough that we all need to raise our games by 20% and go out of this tournament with a big win and our heads held high.
Cricket is a tough game at times and can be very cruel but it’s a great leveller at times and if we can win on Sunday and walk away with a victory it can give you a confidence boost even if it means not progressing to the other stage.
Personally I feel India are the favourites for the tournament. Home advantage and a well balanced squad make for a strong contender for the trophy and with MSD leading the troops they will have all the confidence in the world.
Australia are another side that are strong and I guess for them it’s how they adapt to Indian conditions but most of their players play I the IPL so they should be right in that compartment.
As for us, the sun always rises so it’s forward we must march and look to finish strongly.
