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India v New Zealand: Day 1

Friday, October 17 2003

A courageous and superhuman batting effort by New Zealand openers, Mark Richardson and Lou Vincent left the Indian team totally stunned and utterly clueless.

The venue for the second test was the beautiful stadium at the Mohali. In contrast to Ahmedabad, the grass was green, the weather was perfect for cricket, and the conditions for both bowling and batting were excellent.

Sourav Ganguly was out of the India squad due to the painful infection on his hip, which meant Rahul Dravid became India's captain for the first time in tests, and flamboyant ODI specialist, Yuvraj Singh made his test debut.

For New Zealand, Jacob Oram was out, and fast bowler Ian Butler made his entry into the team. Stephen Fleming won a crucial toss and had no hesitation in batting first.

Mark Richardson and Lou Vincent got New Zealand off to a flyer, with Zaheer Khan and Lakshmipathy Balaji leaking crucial runs. Balaji had Richardson edging to slip, only for the new captain, Rahul Dravid to spill a relatively straight forward chance.

From here onwards, it was total Black Cap domination. The Indian bowlers lacked enthusiasm and commitment, as Richardson and Vincent both registered their half centuries. The fielding effort by the Indian's was best described by commentator Atul Wassan by claiming that the boys were falling around like a 'sack of potatoes'.

Some beautiful drives, elegant cut shots, and brutal shots through mid wicket against both fast bowlers, and the spinners was the flavour of the day. As Vincent and Richardson dominated, Dravid was left helpless in both tactics and bowling options.

Ultimately both registered their centuries and making a record 231 run partnership against India for any wicket. Lou Vincent (106) registered his highest ever test score, surpassing his 104 against Australia at Perth in 2001.

However, the colourful crowd at Mohali had something to cheer about as veteran leg spinner, Anil Kumble finally got a lbw decision his way, as he trapped Vincent in front of the stumps.

At the close of play, Mark "The Rock" Richardson was still not out on 102, along with the ever improving Scott Styris. India have their work cut out for them in the field, as New Zealand have placed themselves in a position where they can register an important win in this match and in the series.

Can India fight back? Day two promises to be even more exciting as New Zealand will be hoping to put India away, while Rahul Dravid will be hoping to fight back into this match.


Brief Score Summary: Day 1 - Close of Play

New Zealand (1st Innings): 247/1 (Vincent 106, Richardson 102*, Kumble 1/57)


Posted by Sangrah