India has a few formalities to complete as it takes on Zimbabwe today

Rohit & Co. have moved on from the setback against South Africa, but will be well aware of the perils of complacence against opponents perceived to be weak

A fortnight after the nail-biting triumph over Pakistan, the Men in Blue are back at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Despite a loss to South Africa, India has progressed and now the formalities of a semifinal berth need to be signed especially through its Sunday fixture against Zimbabwe.

The weather, grim and dark, until a few days ago, has largely cleared but there is a nip in the air and fielders in the deep may be inclined to keep their hands in their pockets.

India holds a 5-2 edge in T20Is, with the last clash dating back to 2016. Yet, this has been an ICC Twenty20 World Cup that has seen underdogs reveal fangs. Upsets have been registered and Afghanistan, riding on Rashid Khan’s chutzpah, nearly derailed Australia.

As India gears up for the Super 12 Group 2 game, Rohit Sharma will be conscious about Zimbabwe’s coup against Pakistan earlier in this championship. In the cut and thrust of international cricket, victories never come easy. The lesser fancied unit is often goaded by a desire to show it belongs on the big stage while also trying to infuse hope to countrymen back home.

Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Zimbabwe seek a balm through sport while their backyards are tinged with angst.

Rohit’s men know the perils of complacence against opponents perceived to be weak. The joust with Zimbabwe offers an opportunity to extend the winning fervour besides fine-tuning skill-sets as after this clash only the knock-outs remain.