India, Feb. 19 -- The margins have been reasonably comprehensive-35 runs against Scotland, 30 runs against England, nine wickets against Nepal, and now, a 42-run win against Italy here on Thursday.

On the batting front, there has been at least one big, standout performance every match. The fast bowlers have been run in well, with the spinners getting an extensive workout on contrasting pitches in Kolkata and Mumbai. And considering two of their Super Eights matches are at Wankhede and Eden Gardens, West Indies would think it's a job well done so far.

Which is quite a statement already, given West Indies came to this World Cup not exactly as contenders. Their hitting ability was never in doubt, but the bowling hadn't earned the stripes y...