LONDON:
Test cricket celebrates its 2,000th match today with a marquee contest between England and India, which promises not only to be an excellent advertisement for the five-day game, but the opener at Lord’s will also be a delight for statisticians.
If Sachin Tendulkar celebrates the landmark occasion with a century, it will be his 100th international ton. The match is also the 100th Test between England, who gave birth to cricket, and India, the top-ranked Test nation.
Tendulkar arrives at Lord’s having had to contend with a level of admiration arguably unequalled in both its frenzy and duration in history. Having scored 99 international hundreds, the adulation will intensify should he reach three figures at Lord’s, where his previous best is a modest 37.
However, the ‘Little Master’ insisted that breaking records is the last thing on his mind.
“I’m not thinking of records,” he insisted. “I’m just thinking of enjoying this tour.”
England wary of batting threat
England are well aware that the Indian team is more than just about Tendulkar, and has a powerful top-order, featuring the likes of Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman. Off-spinner Graeme Swann appeared wary of the Indian batting threat.
“It would be extremely risky to focus all our energies on one player,” said Swann. “If we focus on one guy another will sneak in the back door. In MS Dhoni they have possibly the most charismatic player India’s ever had. I think he’s the most important player here now.”
If England win 2-0 or 3-1, they will replace the tourists as the top-ranked Test team.
DRS not to be used for lbws
The series, although making use of the Decision Review System (DRS), will not be employing the technology for leg-before-wicket decisions.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced that infra-red technology and stump microphones will be part of the DRS but not ball-tracking. This meets the minimum standards for DRS usage stipulated by the ICC.
A statement said the ECB wanted to include Hawk-Eye, but the Indian board did not.
Approaching landmarks at Lord’s
2,000th Test in cricket history
100th Test between England and India
100th international century for Sachin Tendulkar if he reaches three figures
Published in The Express Tribune, July 21st, 2011.
COMMENTS (2)
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What a tremendous feeling to have a guy like Sachin as your role model and the honour to see such a great man to play for your Country.
Indians is blessed.
best of luck for Sachin for his 100th 100.