Date:01/10/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/10/01/stories/2008100157332000.htm

Sport - Cricket

Laxman unfazed by Chargers development

Bangalore: Talk of India-Australia cricket often veers to a number that triggers nostalgia and awe — 281.

V.V.S. Laxman, the man who crafted that innings and ambushed Steve Waugh’s men in 2001, however has been dealt a blow at a time when he must be primed for the fresh challenge of taking on the Aussies in the four-match Test series that will commence here on October 9.

The news of Deccan Chargers sacking him as captain has come at an inopportune time and though Laxman has maintained a dignified silence, which is typical of the man, the sense of hurt is obvious.

At the preparatory camp here, Laxman and fielding coach Robin Singh, who has been removed from the post of Deccan Chargers coach, have got on with their routine drills and seem charged up for the Test series ahead.

Test skipper Anil Kumble, meanwhile, expressed dismay over the treatment meted out to Laxman. “It is not about the timing. IPL is a domestic event and Laxman has done fabulously well for Hyderabad all these years and the latest development is disappointing,” Kumble said. — Principal Correspondent