Azharuddin, the biggest culprit

Saurav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid, however, looked set to carry on from where they had let off in Taunton. But just when they were looking good, Ganguly was run out. By then, he had thrilled the capacity crowd with some crisp drives.

The elegant Dravid is in terrific form. But after batting so well for a fine fifty and with a good eleven overs still togo, he threw away his wicket. He ought to have batted to the very end rather than leave it to the others.

Mohammed Azharuddin was the biggest culprit for throwing it all away when he should have played with greater responsibility. He played a pathetic shot and, had he not been the captain, I’m pretty sure he would have been disciplined for his indiscretion. And that’s putting it mildly. Nayan Mongia, too, played a poor shot and must be made to do penance for his sin.

Compared to Azhar and Mongia, Jadeja showed a lot more responsibility. He improvised beautifully, even while losing partners at the other end. Time and again the talented Jadeja has come to India’s rescue. This time was no different as he essayed a superbly.

England bowled well what with Alan Mullally and Darren Gough turning their arms over effectively, and Angus Fraser and Mark Ealham bowling an immaculate line and length. Their fielding too was high class and was responsible for them saving at least 30, which could make a considerabledifference in the end.

It was important for India to get at least a couple of wickets while the white ball still retained its shine. Debashis Mohanty rose to the occasion by pitching the ball up and getting it to move. He got rid of the out of form Stewart and danger man Graeme Hick, which put the hosts on the backfoot straight away.

That left the game interestingly poised, but the skies opened up and rain played the spoilsport.