After the heady success in the Aussie tri-series, it was expected that the Indian team would conquer newer horizons. And that was the script in the first two matches of the Kitply Series triangular. But, they couldn't quite get their act together in the final against Pakistan. But, not everything is lost yet. The team looks fresh, full of strong legs and lots of enthusiasm. There seems to be hunger in the young team, lead by the able MS Dhoni. They are not afraid of any team and never say die in any situation. There is a belief that this team will not lose its way like the Windies or England post 2005.

The core of the team revolves around senior players - Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh and Dhoni. The rest of the batting comprises of relatively young players who are multi-dimensional - a utility that previous coach Greg Chappell used to advocate. Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, Yusuf Pathan, Robin Uthappa and Suresh Raina have done well with the chances that have come their way. Consistency is the only aspect that has to be inculcated in this team, with it India has the potential to challenge the mighty Aussies.

The bowling remains an enigma - fluctuating between the excellent and the ordinary. Injuries also mean that it is very difficult for a set of bowlers continuously available. Zaheer Khan, once he is free from injury, will spearhead of the attack. He will be ably assisted by RP Singh, Sri Sreesanth, Irfan Pathan and Ishant Sharma in the pace department. Harbhajan Singh is the leader of the spin-pack (provided he can keep his motor-mouth shut) while Murali Karthik, Piyush Chawla, Pragyan Ojha should be given chances to prove their worth.

The fielding is definitely a notch above earlier generations. This is where Robin Singh has definitely made his mark. Chief Coach, Gary Kirsten, will no doubt increase the productivity of the team through his innovative practices on the field. Kirsten has to be credited for getting on board mental conditioning coach Paddy Upton - this kind of help separates winners from losers.

When all said and done, the Indians did well in the triangular series, considering the fact that they were without Sachin Tendulkar. They did not get flustered chasing a big target and fought to the end. These are definitely the qualities of a team that has the skills to reach the top, although the summit is still a long way off.