(This entry was originally published on Saturday, March 28th, 2009)
After New Zealand’s dominance for 3 consecutive days, India has at last bounced back on the fourth day of the second test. Opener Gautam Gambhir’s fifth test century gave India a solid platform in their pursuit to save the match. Thanks to his unbeaten 102, India reached at 252 for 2 at stumps in their second innings and the visiting side is still trialing by 62 runs. India lost the Sehwag’s wicket yesterday and was facing a seemingly defeat, but 133-run stand between Gambhir and Dravid for the second wicket lifted India’s hopes of saving the match. Dravid played a very slow but effecting innings of 62 off 220 balls before being dismissed by Daniel Vettori. Sachin Tendulkar is batting on 58 along with centurion Gambhir. Vettori and Patel both got a wicket each.
With 62 runs still needed to get past New Zealand’s first innings total, India is still on the back-foot, but at this moment, they are in a position from where they can save the match. Tomorrow, the first session will be very crucial for both sides. If New Zealand bowlers can dismiss India within one and half session, the home side can still win the match. India, on the other hand, can bat for a draw or throw New Zealand a challenging target to chase on. So, both sides can win the match from this situation or the match could even end up in a draw. Now, let us see if cricket fans are going to experience an eventful day or a dragging 5th day in the Napier test.
No comments:
Post a Comment