French suffer first defeat

Despite the fact that the French were playing their first-ever series outside Europe, they showed no signs of nerves. On the other hand, the home team seemed subdued. The Champions Trophy experience plus the hectic domestic schedule seemed to have taken the toll of the stars in the squad.

Though it was the combination of internationals 8212; Sandeep Singh and Bimal Lakra 8212; that gave IA the lead. Lakra netted a Sandeep Singh8217;s drag-flick in 32nd minute. Christopher Musgens equalised for the visitors in the 64th minute and the match appeared to be heading for a dull draw before Dhanraj Pillay struck the winners.

Dhanraj was also instrumental in his team8217;s first attempt at the goal in the 24th minute when he combined with Arjun and VS Vinay but the ball went wide.

His performance on-field today was a reminder that the mercurial striker still has it in him to create enough breaches in the opposition.

Skipper Dilip Tirkey was comparatively subdued, and had to leave the field for some time after being hit on his right hand. France next play two Tests against the Indians on Monday and Tuesday at the Shivaji Stadium.