No, that was not tongue in cheek at all. Completely meant it. The fact the four most scrutinised players in the Indian team at the moment - Pandya, Jadhav, Jadeja and Ashwin - will walk into most other sides is an indicator of the team's strength. Certain players can be improved upon for sure but right now, India will rightfully enter most, if not all, as favourites. They have shown their ability to outscore opponents, spin them out or even threaten them with pace/swing at times (which is where they need to improve the most). Most importantly, they've shown the resilience which separates great teams from good ones. Remember how many times the great Australian team (or even individuals like Langer) used to be under pressure before making an emphatic comeback? While India don't possess the same quality yet, they're making baby steps in that direction.
As for Australia, missing the semis was a massive shame. But the team is still very young and there are some decent talents coming up. Vital the number 4 to 7 spots are filled appropriately. A high-quality all-rounder is the missing piece in the jigsaw.
Marked but won't happen 'coz it's India.
