A cricket relationship that was one-way traffic, in England’s favour, for most of the 20th century has now turned towards India. Though lacking the edge of their rivalries with Australia and Pakistan, these two countries share emotional and historic ties that predate the 79 years they’ve been playing Tests and the recent rise of both teams has seen them more evenly matched than ever before. Since 2007 they’ve played for the Pataudi Trophy - named for Nawab Iftikhar Ali Khan, who played for both teams - which India have won twice on the trot and now travel to England to defend.
First Test @ Lord's, London (July 21-25)
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1100** "Heads," calls Dhoni... heads it is! India won the toss and will field first. PK plays, Raina plays, Yuvi and Sree don't.
England (474/8 dec) are in a strong position thanks to Pietersen’s 202*. Heavy rain is forecast for 4 am on Saturday morning which may or may not delay the start of play on the third day but otherwise the weather looks good over the next three days of this test.
There’s still plenty of time left in this game. It is upto the indian batsmen now to atleast salvage a draw from here. I don’t think it is going to happen again but Sri Lanka did lose the Cardiff test against England during a mad 24 overs on the last day
Waleed Maharishi's shaap (curse) neutralizes vaunted Indian bowling attack. Attempts ongoing to placate the revered sage before the start of the 2nd Test :)
Rahul Dravid to the rescue - 103 not out. Mukund played well 49 - went for ill advised shot. Tendulkar, Dhoni cameo roles. India 188 runs behind.
Raina had dubious distinction of being involved in 2 ducks - one his, and other as runner for Zaheer.
Broad bowled really well - unlucky to have Laxman and Dravid dropped in same over! Both sitters, esp Laxmans by skipper at 1st slip. 4 for 33 of (out of which 4 runs were overthrow by Peterson)
