The 2nd test match between India and Australia is very interestingly poised after 4 days. Australia leads us by 200 odd runs and all the talk is about what target they will set us. Will Ponting go after the 16 consecutive test match winning record of Steve Waugh or play it safe? I think that he will play it safe and wait to close the series in Adelaide, where he will fancy his side's chances on a bouncy track. From India's point of view I think we probably missed out winning this test due to the poor umpiring. It is appalling to see caught behind's, leg before's and the third umpiring messing up decisions all in favor of Australia. I cant comprehend why after BCCI asked the team management to lodge a formal complaint, we have decided not to do so! I mean, isn't suffering injustice wrong too? Also, Ponting advocates his opponents to walk when they know they are out and the umpires don't get it right. Mate, what happened? Why did you or Symond's not walk when both of you were sure you nicked the ball? Is this your sportsmanship? Why don't you walk the talk?
It has been a good test for India so far. Our batsmen were finally able to assert themselves and they all looked good. Ganguly is in sublime form and every time he sets foot on the pitch he looks good for a ton. He is unable to convert his start into a big inning though. Laxman was classy as ever and Dravid too was able to get some runs. Harbhajan's knock was special. Obviously, Sachin's knock was the highlight.
It was Sachin's third hundred at the SCG and it was a relief to see him get the hundred! With the recent spate of getting out in the nineties, it was important that he start 2008 on a fresh note. I think the 5th day can be made very interesting by Ponting if he wants to. If he can gamble and give India a target of just under 300, it will turn into a good fight since India might be interested. Anything over 300 I think will force India to play for a draw. I just hope he gambles and India get a chance to get even in the series. Only then will we know if this team has it in it.
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