Re: 3rd Test: Australia vs. India at Perth (WACA) Jan. 16-20, 2008
Regardless of whether India win or lose - I have to say that India's performance so far in the series has surpassed all my expectations. They have fought hard against the Aussies and have not been rolled over as I thought India would be.
The only one batsman who has "matched" my expectation is Waseem Jaffer - the flat track specialist. I would like to see Karthik in his place in the next Test (even a seemingly out-of-form Yuvraj is acceptable instead of Jaffer - Yuvraj will save as many runs on the field as Jaffer will score with the bat)
Dhoni's wicket-keeping in this test was absolutely brilliant - though, I have to say, that his batting technique has been exposed on these lively pitches - which makes India's long tail even longer.
And Pathan - I have always been his fan through thick and thin. He is such a valuable asset. Intelligent bowler, great batting technique and a fabulous out-fielder (not many people recognize the last mentioned). To keep him out of the team for so long is criminal.