Man of the Series India vs. Pakistan Test Series

[vvvrulz]

I don't think the Sehwag, Gambhir opening pair is all that fragile imo.

[Shaka]

Balaji's made a great start, I wouldn't rule him out. It's not being wise after the event either, I was saying during the Australia tour of India that he would be a big miss. Excellent new ball bowler. For Pakistan it's hard to see past the big guy so Inzimam for me.

[Paoli]

Sehwag or Balaji at this stage!!

[vvvrulz]

Sehwag is one of the modern greats imo.

[imaginarydiva]

Nice to see sachin gathering some runs although its a pity he missed out on that century.Well,hope i don't have to wait too long to see him get that record.

[Paoli]

I think the most reassuring thing, diva, is that we haven't lost the Sachin we love...Pity he didn't finish with a six though!!!

[imaginarydiva]

Sooo darn true buddy!U read my mind!

[Maranello]

Originally Posted by Paoli69

I think the most reassuring thing, diva, is that we haven't lost the Sachin we love...Pity he didn't finish with a six though!!!

Depends what Sachin you do love Paoli. If it is the best stroke player and timer of the ball, someone who could dominate a bowling attack using orthodox cricket strokes, with the minimum of effort, then that Sachin is long gone. When was the last time Sachin took control of the situation in a Test against decent opposition and dictated terms? Pre-2002 I would hazard a guess.

If your love is for a steady accumulator, who knows his limitations and plays well within them and is only concerned with the amount of runs he gets, not how he gets them, and is prepared to be dominated by bowlers at times, then fear not, that Sachin is alive n well.

Originally Posted by imaginarydiva

Nice to see sachin gathering some runs although its a pity he missed out on that century.

He was out at 8, off a clear edge - most batsmen would probably have walked off, the dismissal was so obvious. For some reason, Koertzen did not give it, and Sachin sheepishly stood his ground.

[Zainub]

Somehow I had the feeling that had that appeal been made against anyone but Sachin we would have probably seen the finger go up ... sometimes umpires can be guilty of giving players too much respect

[vvvrulz]

Agreed, altho Steve Bucknor had no trouble with sending Sachin on his way during the Gabba Test 2003 :P

As for his innings, I would be lying if I didn't say that its disappointing that he is looking to play a conservative role. I really enjoyed the old days when he creamed every opposition without thought, much like Sehwag !