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Laxman hundred boosts India

03/01/2008

A brilliant century from VVS Laxman has given India hope of salvaging something from the second Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Australia were all out in their first innings for 463, with Andrew Symonds remaining unbeaten on 162. Bowlers Brett Lee [59], Mitchell Johnson [28], helped the home side to a daunting total.

India got off to an awful start as Lee bowled Wasim Jaffer with a vicious inswinging Yorker. But Laxman and Rahul Dravid [53] steadied the ship for the Indians. But after the pair put on 175, they went in quick succession. Johnson got Dravid out and Brad Hogg claimed Laxman's wicket.

The visitors ended the day on 216/3, with Sachin Tendulkar unbeaten on 9 and Sourav Ganguly on 21. Laxman said afterwards the experienced pair at the crease had a major part to play for India.

He said: "It's very important Sachin and Sourav start off on a high tomorrow and have a big partnership. As of now, the match is evenly balanced. If they can build a big partnership, we can have a big first-innings total and put pressure on the Aussies.

"I'm sure Tendulkar is looking forward to it. He's batting brilliantly. I'm sure he will get a double tomorrow like four years back."

India are 1-0 down in the four match Test series after they suffered a heavy defeat in the first Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground last week.