Adam Bailey
DeanoHarmo1st Test a Draw
October 13th 2008 13:03
Category: Australia vs India 1st test
Cameron White took his first Test wicket on day 5 of the first Test in India
The Australians declared after 5 overs and 35 runs early in the first session, giving them most of the day to try and take 10 Indian wickets.
With a target in mind, Brad Haddin and Shane Watson arrived at the crease and it wasn't long before their aggressive intentions were made evident.
Watson was bowled by Ishant Sharma for 41 swinging across the line which brought Cameron 'The Bear' White to the middle. His quick-fire 18 paired with Haddin's 35 set Australia up to declare at 6/228, holding a demanding 299 run lead.
The Aussies started well, putting the hosts under pressure by taking the wickets of Sehwag and Dravid.
The great Sachin Tendulka strolled out to the cheer of thousands in the crowd. It was obvious his mission was to stay there as long as possible and when he was joined by VVS Laxman, the Indians bolted down the hatches.
After a 61 run partnership, the little master lost concentration and handed Cameron White his first Test wicket.
But that was the last bit of excitement for the match as defensive Indian batting was interrupted by periods of dim light.
The two captains agreed to end the match 5 overs from the closure of play with Laxman on 42, Ganguly on 26 and India at 4 for 177.
Australian Captain, Ricky Ponting said that "he was confident heading in to today's play but credit to the Indians for hanging in there."
Zaheer Kahn was awarded man of the match for taking 6 wickets in the Test and scoring 57 not out with the bat. His innings was a turning point on day 3, which ultimately gave India the chance to win or draw the match.
The only highlight for the Aussies on day 5 was White picking up his first Test wicket, taking the scalp of one of the greatest batsman of all time and delaying him from becoming the highest Test run scorer of all time.
With three tests remaining in the series it will be interesting to see what changes are made to the teams and what kind of pitches the players will encounter.
The host nation will feel as though they saved this match, but the visitors will feel as though it was one that got away.
- Adam Bailey
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