1st test: India vs South Africa, Green Park, Kanpur

[Zainub]

South Africa have won the toss and decided to bat first. After a resonable start they have now slipped into trouble by virtue of two wickets in two balls from Anil Kumble, they finished with 154/4 at tea. Kumble will have a chance to get his hatrick after the break when he will bowl to Dippenar who is still not yet off the mark. The other not out batsman is Andrew Hall, who has played well for his 57 not out.

Can SA turn things around or will it be plain sailings for the home team?

[Beny]

How are SA handling the conditions? Any worry about a return to form before the English tour?

[Zainub]

Stumps, Day 1: South Africa 230 for 4 (Hall 78*, Dippenaar 46*, Kumble 4-54)

[vvvrulz]

South Africa are really drawing this match out. The indian bowlers are lacking any sort of imagination, much like New Zealands mammoth total in India last year, where their were four centurions in one innings.

[Occasional Fan]

Originally Posted by Beny

How are SA handling the conditions? Any worry about a return to form before the English tour?

RSA won't be back in form in time for the England tour - first test now less than four weeks off. Did you see our rugby boys at Twickenham on Saturday showing the Springboks what it's all about? I know there's no real connection between rugby and cricket, but in the heart of every South African there's a real need to win everything. And they didn't! The mighty, mighty England is back!

[vvvrulz]

More fog delays start of Day 4, good to see the Indian batsman take the initiative. Maybe we've hit a winning opening combination? Although it is jumping the gun at this stage.

[Beny]

http://aus.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/C...24NOV2004.html

Is India like Texas? Everybody has a gun.

About VVV's remark concering India's opening partership. I think you may have... I never liked Chopra, far too boaring and negative almost as if he was far more interested in just hanging around than scoring runs. Boaring to watch and negative too.

India have looked far more positive this test.

[vvvrulz]

Well the first partnership certainly was, but the Rahul Dravid played a very slow innings as he has done in recent times. I really wonder about his philosophy, very slow 20's are no good for anybody, and you can't expect to force results at a strike rate around 20-30. Australia have a mentality of getting quick runs, hence they get plenty of time to finish off the opposition. India have the potential to do much of the same..

[imaginarydiva]

Well said;its just that india isnt quite living up to their potential.

[vvvrulz]

Playing their natural game would really help though, Virender Sehwag is the prime example. He cares very little about form or situation, he just goes out there and does what he does best.. bat !