They call Ian Blackwell the retriever of lost causes back home, and except for his innate ability to dodge the team’s strict fitness regime, the 27-year-old—in the most odd circumstances—can be a better bet than most on the field. On a dull day at the Brabourne Stadium, where England were resolute in not stretching themselves beyond a certain limit, Blackwell—the most innocuous of bowlers— ended with four wickets. For most part of the day, it appeared like England were enjoying an extended net session, here. Apart from Blackwell’s four, there was nothing that England did worth noticing, remaining as insipid as possible. Harmisson got the bounce he needed, Hoggard his swing, Jones sliced his run-up and Flintoff managed pace. All said and done, the famed English seam attack that left Australia unsettled in their fight for the Ashes, looked nowhere like they were in the mood to get going as yet. They bowled in short spells, avoiding full throttle, keeping themselves out of harm’s way, as England used eight bowlers in 80 overs. The only celebration for the day, in Blackwell’s own words, was Monty Panesar’s debut wicket on the tour. ‘‘The team’s happy for Monty. He’s been received well here in India. It’ll be good if he gets going,’’ he said. Panesar bowled a tight spell to give away 45 runs off 18 overs. Aniket Redkar, Panesar’s only victim, was bowled beautifully round his legs. In reply to England’s 299 in the first innings, CCI XI were bowled out for 252. England started to bat in the second innings, this time with Trescothick walking out along with Strauss. Trescothick, indisposed when England batted first, remained unbeaten on 23 when bails were taken off. Strauss, meanwhile, clipped Abid Nabi to square leg to count for the only wicket. Brief scores: England: 299 and 30/1vs CCI President’s XI: 251 (V Samant 53, Ian Blackwell 4-57).
