Pakistan battled to 257-6, leading by a meagre 53 runs, at stumps on day four of the first Test against India in Mohali. The home side have all the aces.
KEY MOMENT
An opening burst from pace bowlers Lakshmipathy Balaji and Irfan Pathan sliced through the top of the Pakistani batting in just five overs.
With a deficit of 204, Pakistan already faced enough problems but when they then slipped to 10-3 against the new ball there appeared to be no way back.
Both bowlers knew the hour-long mini-session just before lunch would suit them ideally - an opportunity to get into a rhythm without tiring.
But they were into their stride sooner than expected. A full length, and in the case of Pathan some unexpected bounce, did the trick.
PLAYER OF THE DAY
Balaji added three wickets - all key ones - to his five in Pakistan's first innings to make him a serious contender for man of the match.
 Just a week ago, Balaji was unsure of his place in the side |
His success in his opening burst to dismiss both Taufeeq Umar and Younis Khan before lunch proved that his performance on the first day was not just an inspired spell.
And at the end of the day he returned to beat Asim Kamal for pace, just at a time when the left-hander was set to be there for the final morning.
At the start of the day Balaji enjoyed a Test-best 31 with the bat - not bad for a player who until earlier this week wasn't sure of a place in the side.
TALKING POINT
The early dismissal of Umar in Pakistan's second innings led to confusion for many.
Balaji appeared to have appeal for a lbw decision when he struck the opener on the front pad.
But before Darrell Hair could give his verdict Balaji held on to the rebound as he followed through.
Most observers believed Umar had been dismissed leg-before because of the early appeal and it was several minutes before the large screen confirmed he had in fact been caught and bowled.
PROSPECTS
No doubt Test sides have survived starting the final day only a handful of runs in credit and with four wickets left.
 Anil Kumble could run through the tail on Saturday morning |
But Pakistan's chances have decreased with the pitch at last showing signs of wear.
And Anil Kumble should be able to exploit some uneven bounce.
If that doesn't work, an alternative could come from the second new ball due in six overs time.
If Balaji and Pathan can repeat their decisive efforts with the first new ball the match could be settled well before lunch.
Abdul Razzaq - the last recognised batsman - is still there on 22 - but he'll need to shield the tail if they are to keep India in the field until after the first interval.
MMIX
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
