Hyderabad chemistry at work again

Hyderabad chemistry at work again
Sanjay Manjrekar

Hyderabadis seem to have a chemistry with the Eden Gardens. After Mohammad Azharuddin, it was the turn of VVS Laxman to stamp his class and authority at the historic Eden chipping in with an impressive century. No doubt, the third day belonged to this elegant batsman from Hyderabad.

Harbhajan Singh announced his arrival on the international scene on the first day. VVS laxman chose the third. Both young players of India were interestingly in identical stages of their careers before this match. Having been around for a while with skills, not being able to deliver enough was the concern.

India may lose this Test match but they have also discovered two young cricketers who are now ready to take on the challenges of international cricket. Unless there is a miracle, this will be the only bright spot for India in the Test match.

Sandip Patil former Indian Test cricketer was the first person to announce VVS Laxman to Indian cricket. Patil, while being coach of the India A team, saw that the young boy had all that was required to be an outstanding Test cricketer.

Laxman lived up to expectations. He played his first Test for India against South Africa in 1997. Incidentally, the last match of yours truly. Somehow, his early days at the highest level were turbulent. India struggled to find the right batting position for him and Laxman, to some extent, was disappointed. I, for one, felt particularly let down, when he, after getting that brilliant hundred at Sydney, could not carry the form into the one-dayers. Some of the easier things to do.All that is behind him now. March 13 is a day Laxman will not forget. This is the day he has become an Indian batting star. A simple, religious man, who happens to be an excellent team man. No one deserves this success more then VVS. His brilliance unfortunately is not enough for India to really get back into the Test match.

Ganguly, who was slowly growing in confidence in the shadow of Laxman, fell at a crucial stage. His dismissal on 48 was a big blow to India. Laxman is still out there in the company of Rahul Dravid. Dravid, for whom, it seems, the next few weeks in international cricket are going to be tough. He has lost his customary No. 3 place to Laxman and that could be true for the one-dayers as well.

Like any good batsman will, Dravid should continue to keep company with his predecessor and try and raise the dying hopes of all Indian supporters. That would be a good way to demonstrate his stature, also as a top class batsman.

(A SportsNet Syndication)