Test 2: India Sri Lanka at Kanpur
The first day's play in Kanpur featured 2 wickets and 417 runs. But the everlasting memory of the day was the brilliant innings of Virender Sehwag. Many other batsmen will make runs on this pitch, this flat abominable rolled piece of turf that was supposed to support fast bowlers, then the batsmen and then the spinner. But none of them will make it with the stamp of authority and sheer insouciance that is Sehwag's calling card.
After the first 45 minutes or so, where he overcame a dropped catch and reached 6 runs in 26 balls, Sehwag exploded. Rangana Herath, Mutthaiah Muralitharan and Ajanta Mendis were smashed to all corners of the field with scant regard for reputations or bowling line and length. In this endeavor he had his favorite accomplice - Gautam Gambhir. The duo are in a zone these days when it comes to pacing the innings and when one slows the other presses forward. Gambhir reached his 7th century in the last 9 Tests, a feat that is even more impressive than it sounds.
If Sehwag had not uppishly driven to Dilshan's left at short cover, India would easily have been near 500 for the day, I think. The first session produced 131 runs, the second a mind-boggling 176, and the third 110. After Sehwag's departure Gambhir continued on after his century while Dravid played a typical innings. Sachin Tendulkar batted very quietly, not looking to drive home the advantage, content to take what Sangakkara was giving him.
The Sri Lankan bowlers are hampered by a captain who panics at the first sign of aggressive intent from the batsmen and spreads the field.
The Test match is really setting itself up for another run-fest. And I am not sure if this is how a series between the #2 and #3 ranked teams should be played out.
At least, on day 1, we had Sehwag. For one day all was well in the world.
3 comments:
I think for the first time, you missed out on a fact.
Shewag scores 100+ but not 150+.. last time it happened was against New Zealand in Mohali (2003)
either the blog is incomplete or you missed out. hahahaha.
I have two hopes for today.
1. That MSD tells SRT that he needs to step on the gas today; that the team needs to get to 700+ about 45 minutes before close of play.
2. That SRT chooses to play for the team and not for his quest of the 123 or whatever he needs for 13000 runs. That number will be crossed - hopefully today - but at a pace that does embellishes Mr 20 yrs' reputation, not detract from it.
AV/BRB, I did not miss that. I was counting down to 150 and when he missed out on it I was as disappointed as he was.
I was actually hoping the pitch would be more even for bowlers and batsmen and so my review of the day was muted in its enthusiasm. Today Laxman will be batting at some point so I will probably have more to say.
BD/DSC, I agree 100% with your sentiments.
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