27 March 2009 - Jesse Ryder, after a long vigil that has taken 8 hours for India to take his wicket, has just played on for 201. Although clearly disappointed for losing concentration after achieving a fantastic double century, Ryder has given fans, and his country, a fantastic three sessions of cricket. It was great cricket for a man who achieved his first Test century in his last innings and got a double century this time round. Well done Jesse!
India, who won the first test in Hamilton by 10 wickets, are seeking their first series win in New Zealand since 1968 but were dealt a blow when Dhoni sustained a back injury during the warm-up and was replaced by Dinesh Karthik.
Daniel Vettori won the toss and decided to bat first. Virender Sehwag took over as India's captain and bathed in glory as opening bowlers Zaheer Khan and Ishant Sharma from reducing New Zealand to 23-3 in the first hour after the hosts had won the toss and opted to bat on a good wicket.
Then Taylor and Ryder took hold of the match. New Zealand reached 233 for three wickets at tea on Day One of the second cricket Test. They are now 486 for 6 with Vettori and McCullum at the crease.
The NZ v India second Test continues throught the weekend. Bradman's will be open at 6:30 am on Friday and, if asked, on Saturday and Sunday too. Fans wishing to watch play from lunch on the third day can ask for a replay throughout the afternoon or evening on Friday. |
