An entertainer who walks the tightrope, Virender Sehwag conceded that he was disappointed with the stroke that led to his dismissal at 99 on the third day of the second Test.
He said here on Wednesday, “I was disappointed, not because I got out on 99 but because it would have been good for us if we had preserved wickets till lunch. I went for the shot. Then, we lost a few quick wickets before lunch.”
He added, “Thanks to Sachin (Tendulkar) who completed his century, we have bounced back. If we play well we can avoid the follow on and bat the whole day tomorrow.”
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Asked if he was concerned when India lost its fourth wicket in V.V.S. Laxman, he replied, “I was not really worried. The wicket is so good to bat on.
“I knew someone would make a big one. I was expecting centuries from Sachin and Laxman. Unfortunately Laxman got out.”
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He lauded debutant Suresh Raina's innings. “He (Raina) deserves full praise. He batted really well for his half-century and I am hoping he will complete his century on debut tomorrow.”
On having to open the innings after fielding for nearly two days in hot and humid conditions, Sehwag said, “It is tough to field for long and then open. It is a difficult job. But there is an opportunity if you are batting for 18 overs.
“You have a chance to score a half-century and I did that. I came out today and tried to score a big one but unfortunately got out.”
Asked about how the second Test could progress, he said, “It is difficult to say but I think a result will come. Irrespective of who wins or loses, a result will come. I think there is a crack opening up.”
Sehwag was not surprised by the nature of the pitch here. “The last time we played here it was a slow track. In the sub-continent you will get a wicket like that. The first two days are good for batting. It starts to turn from the fourth day.”
Inspirational qualities
Sehwag spoke about Tendulkar's inspirational qualities. “We listen to him every day in the dressing room. We learn much from him.
“Even today, he has the same hunger for runs. Whenever he steps out, he plays as if it is his first match.”
Debutant off-spinner Suraj Randiv was impressive on his Test debut. Remembering Sehwag's dismissal he said, “He was batting on 99. I felt he would go for a big one. I thought I should bowl a doosra. It helped me get his wicket.”
The Sri Lankan added, “This is my first Test. I was a bit nervous yesterday. Today, I got used to the Test atmosphere more. I was just thinking about my line and length. And I get a little bit of bounce with my bowling action.”
Bowling at Tendulkar was an educating experience for Randiv. He said, “It is difficult to bowl at him. Sometimes he goes forwards, sometimes he goes back. It is very difficult to adjust your line and length against him.”