Laxman powers India to respectability

Laxman scored 72 not out and India recovered to 229/3, after the early loss of M Vijay. Rahul Dravid was at his scintillating best and scored 55 and steadied the Indian innings, like a true Wall ! India lead by 240 runs.

Laxman with 72 not and Kohli wiht 26 not out were at the crease when stumps were drawn. Rampaul dismissed Vijay (3), when the right hander lunged forward to a well pitched delivery that kissed the otuside edge of his bat, before going into the hands of Baugh.

Mukund drove Sammy for four and Dravid steered Edwards for his first four and their partnership blossomed. Dravid survived a catch appeal, when Barath plucked the ball out of the ground. Dravid stood his ground and the umpires after a lenghty consultation gave him not out.

Mukund followed an Edwards delivery into the hands of Baugh and India had lost two wickets. Then Laxman and Dravid pulled India out of the danger zone, both scoring brilliant half centuries.

In the post tea session, India scored 81 runs, thanks to Dravid and Laxman. The immense experience of both paved the way for a huge Indian score. Dravid then steered Edwards into the safe hands of Baugh. Virat Kohli joined the in form Laxman, who has now hit two half centuries in this Test Match.

Virat Kohli had to undergo the baptism of fire, a flurry of fast, short pitched deliveries from the fiery Edwards. He pulled Edwards for six, but looked a bit fidgety in his short, unconquered innnigs. He ensured that India did not lose more wickets yesterday.