In the 2nd test match (at Bangalore’s Chinnaswamy Stadium) of this 3 match test series, India carved a remarkable comeback after the quick losses of Sehwag and Dravid in the earlier part of their innings.
Chasing a mammoth 478 set by the gritty Australians (riding high on a fine century by Marcus North), Indians were tottering at 38/2 when Tendulkar came out at the centre and built up a humongous 312 run partnership with opener Murali Vijay. Tendulkar was ruthless in the morning session bludgeoning two sixes to get to his 49th century.
A tad sluggish and cautious Murali, too, carved a well-fought 100, his maiden test hundred eclipsing his previous best of 87. The two batted throughout the 1st two sessions. However, Murali departed shortly after tea caught behind the wickets for a match-saving 139. Cheteshwar Pujara, who came in the side replacing an injured Laxman, fell instantly at 4, ushering in Suresh Raina.
Tendulkar, meanwhile, is looking set for a double ton, another personal milestone and more importantly, a feat that would be instrumental if India goes on to win this test. With boundaries and sixes coming off his willow at will, Tendulkar has looked venomous today lunching on the kangaroo meat with the appetite of a hungry giant.
