India falter, but strike back !

India were bowled out for 201 by Rampaul and Co in the second Test At one stage Rampaul tore through the Indian top order and India were reeling at 44/4 ! WI were simply brilliant in the field, but faltered at the start, as the Indian new ball bowlers, Sharma, Kumar and Mithun took one wicket each to send them cart wheeling at 30/3 !

West Indies were 5/2, losing both openers Simmons and Barath, within the space of five overs. Sharma removed Barath at 3 and Simmons was scalped by Kumar at 5. Then Darren Bravo took on the role of Lara and took the score to 30, when Mithun struck, removing Bravo for 9 ! Night watchman Bishoo joined Sarwan, who is on ten not out.

Edwards and Bishoo bowled superbly, restricting the mighty Indian batting to 201. A great 117 run partnership was shared by Laxman ( 85 ) and Raina ( 53 ) and this partnership redeemed India, who were tottering at 38/4, thanks to some great medium fast bowling by Rampaul.

Laxman stood like the Rock of Gibraltar and ensured that India reached a respectable score, with his brilliant 85. He was supported by the southpaw Raina, who did hit some glorious shots in his well compiled 53. Rampaul's bounce and pace was too much for the Indian top order and they were dithering at 38/4. He scalped three and Edwards and Bishoo also claimed three wickets.

In the session after tea, India lost Raina to a dubious decision. Dhoni soon left and the Indian innings folded up for 201. The Indian captain gave a simple catch to Chanderpaul and continued his miserable form with the bat. But his luck did not desert him, as India struck back, claiming three WI wickets !