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Patience paid off for Pujara, Vijay

March 03, 2013 17:44 IST

India started the day in the worst possible manner, Virender Sehwag edging a Peter Siddle delivery to Matthew Wade in the fifth over.

It took some time for the home team to recover. That probably explains the slow batting that characterised the first session and the 49 runs that came in as a consequence.

Murali Vijay and Cheteshwar PujaraBoth Murali Vijay and Cheteshwar Pujara applied caution, resisting the temptation to go for their shots.

The patience displayed by the two batsmen ensured rich dividends as India didn’t lose another wicket in the session, a factor that added to the side’s confidence.

Once play resumed after lunch the batsmen went after the Australian bowling, adding 106 runs in the second session, to tighten the noose around the visitors.

It was therefore, the restraint displayed by Vijay and Pujara, that not only ensured the hosts didn’t lose another wicket after Sehwag’s early exit but also where India got it right on the second day.

Photograph: BCCI

Rediff Sports Desk