I know it is a disastrous pun, but what I meant to convey was that India's bowling had no bite today in Lahore, and therefore had no fun at all. Pakistan made the most of the conditions to mount a huge total of 326. With 8 still to come (including Mr. Inzy, Afridi and Akmal - arguably the batsman in best form now) India are staring down. But as Dileep of Cricinfo says here, India have given away more on Day 1 and have come back into the game before. It will require a huge effort to save this game (let alone win it), but it is possible. What did India lack today?
- Pace in the bowling department. Imran Khan has said many times before, and today as well - that in these conditions pace in the air is the key to get wickets. Pathan was slower than usual, and Agarkar was, well, Agarkar!
- Kumble had a bad day. I have never seen him bowl so many short balls to anyone else apart from Aravinda de Silva!
- Bhajji was getting it to jump and turn, but lost that somehow.
Younis Khan and Yousuf were terrific though, and with the pitch a bit low and slow, Kaneria can be a handful. However, Shoaib could be the key. This tour will prove to the world that his rehabilitation is complete. Is it?
Categories: Cricket
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