Kohli must curb emotional bursts to avoid mistakes
ability to play both conventional and unconventional shots is both good to watch and a dangerous opponent.
And then there are the clinicians; completely at ease with his eccentric style, Smith currently looks invincible. Both Pujara and Amla have a thirst for runs that is unquenchable and epitomise the importance of having a top-class player in the number three slot.
The three captains— blessed as they are with talent-laden teams — are an interesting study in leadership.
Faf du Plessis is the least talented player but he has a good feel for captaincy and, rare in a South African captain, an understanding of spin bowling.
Kohli quickly established his credentials in his first game as skipper when he chased an unlikely victory at the Adelaide Oval and almost pulled off a miracle win. He’s aggressive minded but needs to ensure any emotional overflow doesn’t lead to a fatal misjudgement.
Smith is the most conservative of the three, captaining by the book but he has improved since he started to put more trust in Lyon’s ability. It also helps his captaincy that he’s amassing runs like a billionaire acquires assets and this ensures that his talented attack has a decent total with which to work.
In the 21st century, the best and most exciting series was the enthralling 2005 Ashes contest in the UK. These two series have the potential to challenge that ‘ranking’ and in the process give us a clearer picture of which team is the best in the world.
A fake World Championship in other words.