At long last the skies seem to have cleared up over Madras and the stage is set for a full-length Test here after a very long time. I, unfortunately, cannot make it to the match until the 4th day at the earliest: too much work piled up. I am hoping to be at the Chepauk on Saturday and Sunday by which time the match should be interestingly poised.
The Indian XI, as I see it, will have to pick 3 out of Pathan, RP, Sreesanth and Jaffer; the rest pick themselves. My gut says that Pathan will miss out unless something dramatic happens.
Providing it does not rain again, this Test will not peter out into a dull draw. Bhaji and Kumble, with Sehwag and Sachin to spell them, should pose enough of a challenge to the SA batsmen. Sachin has always done well here and I am looking forward to another big score from him. If India bats first, life could be very difficult for SA if the match lasts the distance. I do not think SA have the spinners to seriously trouble India but then, we have been known to succumb against lesser opposition.
Overall, it is a fantastic opportunity for both teams to consolidate on their recent successes.
Play begins in about 16 hours.
Filed under: Test Cricket | Tagged: Bhajji, Chepauk, Dravid, India, Kumble, Madras, Pathan, Sachin, Sehwag, South Africa
