Day 2: Kiwi Crusade
Saturday, October 18 2003
New Zealand's glut of runs has continued on day 2 of the second Test against India, with Scott Styris producing his second Test century.
New Zealand resumed day 2 in an incredibly powerful position of 247/1 following excellent batting from Mark Richardson and Lou Vincent that nullified the Indian attack.
Resuming on 102, Richardson started the day in characteristically gritty fashion, negotiating any early challenges from the Indian bowlers.
Scott Styris continued his rapid growth into an all-rounder of immense stature, showing intent as well and common sense to ensure that he too would be set for a long stay at the crease.
The Indians finally made their breakthrough in the 55th over of the day, with Richardson finally removed following a patient 145.
He was caught by leg-spinner Anil Kumble off the bowling of off-spinner Harbhajan Singh to leave New Zealand at a remarkable 382/2.
Captain Stephen Fleming then came to the crease and hit a quick fire 30 to ensure that the kiwis lifted the tempo and allowed no respite for the Indian bowlers and fans alike before being undone by the charismatic bowling of Sachin Tendulkar.
By this stage, Styris had already completed his second Test century.
Since his debut, he has possessed a remarkable ability to produce something extraordinary. While in the context of the match the score was not extraordinary, the way in which he scored his runs was at the very least enthralling.
5 overs later however his reign at the crease ended when he was trapped LBW by an uninspiring Kumble with his score on 119.
After a 60 run partnership, New Zealand suffered one final hiccup before stumps on yet another dominating day - Nathan Astle, caught Parthiv Patel, bowled Harbhajan for 18.
Craig McMillan finished unbeaten on 58, with Robbie Hart on 10.
For the Indians, Harbhajan finished the day with 2/131 to be statistically the pick of the bowlers. Anil Kumble has 2/149, Tendulkar 1/55 while Balaji, Zaheer Khan, Virender Sehwag and Yuvraj Singh have nothing to show for their efforts.
Progress Scores: Stumps Day 2
New Zealand 536/5 (M Richardson 145, S Styris 119, L Vincent 106, C McMillan 58*)
Posted by Andre
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