Laxman proves Australia’s nemesis

VVS Laxman defied a back injury to score an unbeaten 73 as India snatched a remarkable one-wicket victory in Mohali.

MOHALI: VVS Laxman defied a back injury to score an unbeaten 73 as India snatched a remarkable one-wicket victory from the jaws of defeat in the opening Test against Australia in Mohali.

Needing 216 to win, India were at the brink defeat at 124 for eight before Laxman came to his team’s rescue with a brave knock under pressure on the final day, guiding his side to a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

Batting with a runner because of a stiff back, Laxman was well supported by tail-ender Ishant Sharma, who made a defiant 31 in an 81-run stand for the ninth wicket before being trapped leg-before by Ben Hilfenhaus.

Australia’s last chance of winning the match came when paceman Mitchell Johnson began his 17th over to last-man Pragyan Ojha with India needing six to win. Ojha survived a confident appeal for leg-before and then an overthrow for four runs by substitute fielder Steven Smith considerably eased the pressure as the match ended with two leg-byes.

“Our batting collapsed but Laxman and Ishant played well,” said India captain MS Dhoni.”Laxman is a remarkable batsman and whatever field you set, he keeps scoring. He did a very good job for us. For me, it was a very special innings. This game was full of emotions.

“When the game started no one expected we will have a result in four-and-a-half days. The bowlers from both sides have done well to get a result in this game.”

Australia captain Ricky Ponting said, “It was one of the exciting Test matches I have played and full credit to India.

“We tried our best and it was a satisfying effort from the boys.”

The second and final Test is scheduled in Bangalore on October 9.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 6^th, 2010.