The Second Test

India wrapped up the second test and therefore the series in convincing fashion at the Eden Gardens. The West Indies did put up a fight in the second innings, but their collapse in the first innings left them with no real chance of competing.

The Dravid-Laxman show

If its the Eden Gardens, it must be the Rahul Dravid & VVS Laxman show. Dravid continued on his merry way and later described it as one of the easier hundreds that he has got. He has made 5 hundreds this year and in doing so has equaled his best year statistically, 2002. Laxman scored a hundred after some time, but it was worth the wait. His entire repertoire of  shots was on display and West Indians could do little but watch in awe as the wristy VVS caressed the ball to all corners of his favorite ground.

Marauding MS

Dhoni loves the Eden too. His last 100 was at the same ground in early 2010 against the South Africans. After a couple of lucky reprieves, MS switched on. The situation was tailor-made for MS. India had got off to a good start and a big score was almost assured. All Dhoni needed to do was to speed up the process and he did that in trademark fashion. 

The End of Yuvi?

Another flop show in test cricket for Yuvraj Singh. On a wicket where every Indian batsman looked at home, Yuvraj seemed to be batting on a different surface. After a torturous hour or so, Yuvraj was caught plumb in front by Darren Sammy. He has been axed for the third test and one does wonder whether there's a way back for him. IMO, he's had his chances. Let's give the youngsters a go.

Yadav Impresses

Umesh Yadav impressed one and all in the first test with his pace. He went one step better in the second test. His control was better and he has a bunch of wickets to show for his efforts. The way he got rid of the tail must have gladdened many an Indian heart, given India's perennial problems with removing the tail. Australia are waiting. Injuries permitting, Umesh has already booked himself a place on that plane to Australia. Can he stand up an be counted?

The Master & the Protege

The similarities between Dwayne Bravo and the great Brian Lara have been well documented. Bravo's 100 in the second test took that a step further. Not only does young Bravo bat in a manner reminiscent of the great Trinidadian, his average of 47.05 after 12 tests is exactly what the great man averaged 12 tests into his career. What Lara achieved after that was truly spectacular. Can Bravo tread a similar path?