Super Slow Bloke's Iron Triathlon

India tighten grip on second test

The Indian tail wagged again with Patel (54) and Kaif (64) continuing to frustrate the Australian bowlers. The partnership crept up to 102, before Patel edged a catch to Gilchrist off Warne.

Kaif played through to the lunch break, but was unable to return after lunch due to severe cramps caused by the hot and humid conditions. With the bowlers losing wickets, the courageous Kaif returned with a runner. He showed his intentions by lofting Warne down the ground for 4 runs off the first ball he faced. He was out next ball after trying to run after reverse sweeping to third man and collapsing with cramps. He was unable to get back to his crease in time and was run out. In obvious pain, he refused a stretcher and very slowly, using small steps, managed to walk off the ground.

Patel and Kaif managed to lift India to a lead of 141 runs, while Warne took his first ever 5 wicket haul against India, finishing the day with 6 for 125. Dropped catches may prove costly for the Aussies, with 7 chances going down in the Indian innings.

When the Aussies came out to bat, there was an intent that had been missing in the first innings. The sweep shot, which had been virtually unsighted in the first innings, was employed by Hayden and Langer as they worked their way to another 50 run opening stand before tea.

First ball after tea saw Langer edge the ball to Dravid off Kumble. Hayden was dismissed soon after, top-edging a sweep shot. Gilchrist had promoted himself to No. 3 and, after a nervous start, had 49 on the board before being bowled by a Kumble wrong-un just before the end of play. Gillespie came out as night watchman and survived until stumps.

As we start day 4, Australia have 9 run lead with 6 wickets in hand. India have the upper hand, but Chennai is a pitch where scoring in the fourth innings is not easy. The highest 4th innings score to win was the 8-155 by India against Australia 3 years ago.

India will be hoping for early wickets, while the Aussies will be hoping that Martyn, Lehmann and Clarke can add another 200 runs to give them a chance of rescuing the match and taking a 2-0 lead in the series.

posted by Kevin Paine @ 8:37 am