Laxman puts India ahead

Batsman hits second half-century of Test against West Indies.

BRIDGETOWN:

Half-centuries from VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid put India in a formidable position in the rain-hit second Test against West Indies.

Laxman was unbeaten on 72, his second half-century in the match, while Dravid was dismissed for 55, as the Indians reached 229 for three in their second-innings for an overall lead of 240 on the rain-affected fourth day.

After Dravid’s departed, Laxman took control, reaching his 50 from 120 balls, sweeping leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo behind square leg for two. He was fortunate on 69 however, when West Indies captain Darren Sammy dropped a return catch in the last hour.

India had reached 62 for one at lunch, after play started 50 minutes later than regularly scheduled.

The Indians resumed on their overnight total of 23 without loss, but opener Murali Vijay departed in the second over of the day, when he was caught behind for three off Ravi Rampaul, edging an unplayable delivery. 

Published in The Express Tribune, July 3^rd, 2011.