For a year, Chappell got everything he wanted. Then, his team lost 4-1 against W. Indies, made 1st round exit in DLF cup as well as the Champion's trophy and was whitewashed 4-0 in S. Africa. After that, any sensible selector CANNOT give him free hand. And who all were included against his will and who were excluded? Of course, he didn't want Ganguly and Zaheer. But after their performance silenced him, he rather TOOK CREDIT for making them what they were! He never opposed their inclusion in world cup. Then, what did he grumble about? Suresh Raina, in stead of Sehwag and Power, in stead of Kumble. Could that make any difference? Incidentally, Sehwag top-scored for India in world cup and Raina, who had failed match after match, has an overall average of 27 and away average 18! I never heard anyone (other than wicket-keeper) being included for fielding alone, not even Jonty Rhodes. But Guru Greg wanted that! Then, Power, if included, would have warmed the benches as Kumble did. So, had he been listened to, what difference would have it made? In stead of giving excuses, he should learn from Moody. That man didn't talk big about "process", didn't wage war against the "seniors". Rather, he picked up the best team and trained them as best as he could. "Aging" Sri Lanka, with Jaysurya (38), Atapattu (35), Murali (35), Arnold (34) and Vaas (33) has given a drubbing to India. Under Moody, even a lousy Murali had taken that astounding catch. Talking big about youth is one thing and spotting, grooming young talents is another (and more difficult) task. Till Ganguly, Sachin, Dravid and Sehwag continue to score much more than Raina, Karthik, Uthappa, the former will occupy the positions whether anybody likes it or not. That happens to all teams. Chappell had a number of budding talents at his disposal. He groomed very few, destroyed many more. And the situation will remain the same, till he is told a polite "thank you!"
