With India pushing for a very likely victory, almost 50 overs of play was lost on the fourth day of the second cricket test match against South Africa. While there was tremendous frustration in the air, I felt that the loss of play was a good thing for Indian cricket. I must be crazy, right?
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Well, India are battling not only to win the match and square the test series, but they are also fighting to retain the No. 1 Test Match ranking in world cricket. What kind of a No. 1 team do we want to be? The kind Australia was, dominating everyone, winning in just about all conditions, and coming up with plans and personnel for every situation? Or the kind that will get in and out of the No. 1 spot with patchy performances - brilliant in one game, and ordinary in the next? I don't think we are in the former category at the moment.
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I am happy because the loss of play in the current match gives India the opportunity to raise their game on a fourth day track, and dismiss 7 South African wickets in about 70-80 overs to win the match. This is a much more challenging proposition than having to take 3-4 tailend wickets on the last day in 70-80 overs.
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There is a lot on the line, and it remains to be seen if this talented squad can raise their game to force a win. I believe they can and will.
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