A gem of a knock or a magical spell over the next five days would do what truckloads of runs and bagful of wickets over a season's trundling can not and hence the Irani Cup match between Ranji champion Delhi and Rest of India starting on Wednesday would be more of a battle among 22 individuals rather than two outfits.On paper, Ranji champions Delhi, under the talismanic Virender Sehwag, would lock horn with Rest of India, an intriguing assortment of ageing stalwarts and India hopefuls who have a statesmanlike captain in Anil Kumble.In reality, it's a gilt-edged opportunity for all to impress men who matter and grab berths in the Test team, which would take on Ricky Ponting's Australia in another fortnight.
Sachin Tendulkar's late withdrawal owing to an elbow injury has indeed taken some sheen out of the tie but with so much at stake, Kumble and Sehwag would be spared the job of motivating teammates. For most of the Rest of India players, the next five days would be a make-or-mar situation, as far as their Test career is concerned. (AFP Photo)