memories
Finally a victory

The match between India and the Rest of South Africa team, ended in India's favour. Ganguly hit a brilliant 83 in the first innings but went for a duck in the second. The top order comprising of Sachin, Sehwag and Jaffer failed to boost our confidence with another disappointing performance in both innings of the match.

It was Pathan who made India's day, he scored a brilliant 111 not out in the first innings and 40 n.o. in the second. Some superb bowling by Zaheer and Sreesanth ensured a victory for the Indians.

The test series is extremely crucial for India as the one-day series was a total debacle. Sehwag will be the key. He is a different player when it comes to the longer format of the game. Remember Pakistan, if Laxman and Dravid can support Sehwag and Sachin and Ganguly play decently, there is some hope for the team.

You cannot expect the bowlers to defend a total less than 300 or 350 runs. Sreesanth, Zaheer and Pathan have to do well, Kumble knows his job and the veteran has his task cut out before him. Harbhajan is bound to get hit all across the park, but his doosra and variation in speed might do the trick.

I hope Dinesh Karthick is retained in the side. His batting is good and he is an able fielder. All eyes will be on Dada and he has a good opportunity to redeem himself. He has to be very careful about the bouncer aimed at his ribs.

December 15 is when the first test starts, let us wait and watch.