#365DaysOfWriting — Day 302

Have India turned the tables finally?

This has been the most fascinating test series so far. I’m talking about India v Australia of course. After all the bravado and cheer about India being invincible at home, the Aussies trounced us inside 3 days at Pune.

Bangalore seemed no different.

India squandered a good toss, and got rolled over for 189. The Aussie batsmen showed good application to end the second day (yesterday) at 237/6 – a handy lead of 48 runs on a pitch not friendly to batsmen.

Today was a different day.

India would’ve aimed to get the Aussies out without conceding a 100+ runs lead. They not only managed that, thanks to some incisive bowling by Jadeja, but also managed something bigger.

I’m not usually a believer in superstitions…

But we got the Aussies out for a lead of 87 – a number considered unlucky in Australia, because it’s 13 short of a 100. They call it the devil’s number.

After a familiar top-middle order collapse involving Kohli, India finally found its bearings. Rahul continued his great form with a 51, and Pujara (79*) along with an under-fire Rahane (40*) took India to a position of relative strength at 213/4 – a lead of 126 on a fast-wearing pitch.

Another 100 runs could have the Aussies sweating…

India went through the first wicketless session of the series. And also posted the highest series partnership so far. But on this pitch, nothing is set in stone – not even an advantageous position. Ask Australia, who were bossing this series until today. Suddenly, the boot is on the other foot. The curse of 87 seems to have struck for now though.

Tomorrow promises to be another fascinating day…

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