Biggies’ party spoilt for the better

• Having come very close to upsetting a strong Delhi team in the season opener at Ahmedabad, Gujarat emphatically put it across Bengal in Siliguri. Now, after snatching a first innings lead against Railways, they have an outside chance of making it to the knockout stage. Gujarat’s performance so far has been more creditable as there are as many as four former champions plus Mumbai in the group. Gujarat has proved that team effort rather than individual performances matter in the end.

• At the other end of the spectrum, Delhi — despite many former internationals — have been pathetic. If there’s one big reason for their dismal showing, it’s the infighting within the DDCA. From appointment of coaches and captain to selection of a team for each game, it’s been the officials more than the players who have caused the ruin.

• Karnataka, another team with lots of talent, are trying to make a comeback after a rather inauspicious start to the season. After two games without a point, they made several changes within their squad and are now within striking distance of a slot in the semi-finals.