Mohali Test, Day 4, Lunch
Thursday, December 6, 2001

India toyed with England today like a cat does with a mouse. They began with a pace and spin combo, while one would have expected them to start with only pace. Iqbal Siddiqui would have been most effective in the morning, and should have been given a short burst alongside Tinu Yohannan; then, when they were done, the lethal spin attack of Harbhajan Singh and Anil Kumble could have come on together. India, perhaps confident of victory, chose to play around with the visitors.

Yohannan has shown in this second innings performance that he has everything needed to be a successful fast bowler. I especially like the way he celebrates the fall of a wicket, which demonstrates the spirit with which he plays the game; aggressive and exuberant. His run-up and rhythm were much better today, which indicates that his confidence levels are high. His inexperience showed through at times, but he is a heartening find for India, and we will see much more of him in years to come.

When Australia had last visited, they paid the penalty for attacking too early, and losing crucial wickets in the process. England have made the same mistake in this match. I believe that there is a lot of merit in building an innings gradually, looking to defend, not attacking prematurely. England should have adopted that approach, and waited for the loose balls to score off which, knowing the Indian team, there would surely have been plenty of.

Graham Thorpe is the key now – only a big innings by him can save England. And if he does pull it off, it will be the best innings of his career.

Sanjay Manjrekar was talking to Amit Varma.

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