Adam Bailey
DeanoHarmoHarbhajan Keeps India Alive
October 11th 2008 23:21
Category: Australia vs India 1st test
Harbhajan Singh proves to be a thorn in the Australian's side.
The Indians began day three at 0/68 but it wasn't long before the Australian's took the upper hand.
Led by Mitchell Johnson, the Aussie attack were able to take four wickets in the first session, including the the vital scalps of Sehway and Tendulkar.
India's number three batsman, Rahul 'The Wall' Dravid managed to show some resistance but his team mates were falling around him.
After Dhoni was bowled by Michael Clarke and Ganguly given out LBW to Johnson for a scratchy 47, it looked as though all was lost for the Indians.
Harbhajan had a different plan. After a small rain delay, the Indian off-spinner transformed in to a classy batsman showing the Aussie bowlers no respect.
Dancing down the pitch to smack drives, standing and delivering pull shots, it was hard for any Australian to watch.
Naturally the battle turned in to a war of words and after some hefty blows from Harbhajan in response, Watson struck the edge of the bat and the ball was well caught by wicket-keeper Brad Haddin.
Even though Harbhajan was out for 54, his partnership with Zaheer could be the match defining moment.
It has now given India the opportunity to draw or even win the Test which after the first session of the day would have seemed impossible.
Mitchell Johnson was the pick of the Australian bowlers showing great variety in his spells. He was rewarded with 4 wickets including Tendulka, Laxman and Ganguly.
India will resume play today at 8/313, only 117 runs behind the Australians. If they are able to score another 60 to 70 runs then we have a real game on our hands.
Australia will be looking for early wickets so that they can post a quick score and hope to bowl the Indians out a second time.
Harbhajan has provided the turning point for India. Can someone step up on day four for the Aussies?
- Adam Bailey
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