Indian bowlers remained gripped in the Australian fever on he second day of the first test of the Border-Gavaskar Cup as the visitors went on to total 430 runs in the first innings. Michael Hussey took off from an overnight figure of 46 and scored 146 runs. Zaheer Khan showed door to Hussey to complete a five-wicket haul.

Michael Hussey scored his 9th test century and the second in this match. Ricky Ponting slammed 123 on the first day of the match and Hussey’s 146 today has put Australia in a formidable position. Hussey scored 126 in the match against Board President’s XI. Mr. Cricket, as he is popularly known in Australia, showed no mercy to the Indian bowlers and continued his rampage.

Khan had had a boring day at field, not getting wickets and his deliveries spinning runs for the Aussies when his three quick wickets after the tea-break changed the scene. Ishant Sharma bowled with all his gut and his 4-wicket stand is the only thing Indians will write home about for today’s game. It was a pacers’ show all the way but their thriftiness at giving runs cost India another 60-70 runs.

After frustrating the Indian bowlers and fielders, the Australians became the spectators to a growing Indian blitzkrieg. Openers Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir put together 68 runs in the 18 overs they got to play out of the consigned 28 overs. The day’s play was truncated with unexpected showers.

Australia haven’t bowled yet so the strength of their spin attack cannot be gauged. However, their famous inability in facing spin seems to be a matter of past. The fast bowlers bowled slower and the spinners went too quick. Indian spinners have been largely unsuccessful in the first innings. The pacers have taken wickets but they are uneconomical and a total failure in threatening the opposition batsmen.

Australian Batsmen have displayed their fireworks. Expecting a similar/better batting show from the Indians is not a luxury now. Indian openers played some smooth shots today and for Indian to stay afloat in the game, they must establish a long-partnership. Sehwag ended the day at 43 he will enter the field confident and will be expected to play his natural quick game.

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3.25 Copyright (C) 2007 Alain Georgette / Copyright (C) 2006 Frantisek Hliva. All rights reserved."

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