The Hindu : Timely century by the captain

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Sunday, Mar 03, 2002

Sport

Sport - Cricket

Timely century by the captain
By K. SRIKKANTH

It was a `perfectly timed' hundred by Sourav Ganguly. His form leading to the Delhi Test was forgettable, there was enormous pressure on him to perform, and most importantly, the situation demanded a big knock from the captain.

The circumstances did bring out the best from a man who just had one fifty in the last 14 Tests. One is sure, Ganguly would rate this century among his better ones, an effort that should enable him retain captaincy for the West Indian tour.

Promoting himself to the No. 3 slot was a well thought out move and Ganguly remained calm amid much pressure, pacing his innings quite beautifully.

It was vital for the captain to occupy the crease after his side had lost key wickets on a pitch affording turn from the second day. India might have been in a precarious position had Ganguly departed early.

In the past too, Ganguly has performed at No. 3., and now that he has rediscovered form again at this slot, it would not be a bad idea if the skipper continues here. He appeared confident against the short pitched deliveries from the pacemen too, pulling them with contempt.

It was creditable that Ganguly kept his concentration going even after reaching the three-figure mark, and since India would be batting last on this surface, a good lead would do its cause no harm. After Virender Sehwag's dismissal, his partnership with Kumble, which came at a stage when India was not yet out of the woods, was handy.

Sehwag was impressive too, playing with refreshing freedom. The best aspect of his batting is that he sticks to his natural style, whether opening the innings in ODIs or coming lower down the order in Tests.

He goes after the bowling and his instinct to dominate pegs the rival attack back, easing the pressure on the batting side in the process.

This could still be an interesting Test. If Zimbabwe sets a target of around 250, we might have an interesting climax to the match.

www.krishsrikkanth.com

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