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'Little Master' shows his class

24/01/2008

A century from Sachin Tendulkar anchored India to 309-5 after the first day of the final Test against Australia in Adelaide.

The 'Little Master' put on something of a batting masterclass as he compiled 124 not out for the tourists, who must win the match to square the series at 2-2.

Virender Sehwag (63) also made a composed half-century before he was caught in the slips by the returning Matthew Hayden of fast bowler Brett Lee.

VVS Laxman also chipped in with 51 before he too was caught behind off the dangerous Lee, edging to wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist.

India had opted to bat on a promising track at the Adelaide Oval after captain Anil Kumble won the toss.

And although the openers were watchful, especially all-rounder Irfan Pathan who had been promoted to the side as a number two batsman to also provide cover as a fifth pace bowler, the tourists were one wicket down with just 34 runs on the board.

Pathan edged Mitchell Johnson behind to Gilchrist, although the veteran gloveman also dropped Laxman later in the innings.

Former captain Rahul Dravid went next, caught by Australia captain Ricky Ponting after Johnson foxed the batsman with a dangerous delivery.

But even though Sehwag and then Sourav Ganguly went cheaply to leave India reeling on 156-4, Tendulkar proved his credentials as one of the most talented batsmn ever to grace the game.

His shot selection and timing was impeccable throughout as he put on 126 for the fifth wicket with Laxman and saw out the day opposite Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who slowed the pace to a crawl as the light faded, totalling just six off 54 balls.

The pair will resume tomorrow with some work still to be done to post a big score and put their hosts under pressure, but if Tendulkar continues in his rich vein of form he will provide a stern test for the Australian attack.