Proud of moi BOYS!

It was an incredible match, more incredible than the incredible match I was at. It would have been even more incredible if India had won at the Sydney Cricket Ground, yet the match was nothing short of a non stop entertainment package. For the first time in the commonwealth series, I was truly watching the game I loved.

Compared to the meagre total of 160 at the MCG, where like most of the other games in this tri series, was either dominated by good bowling, or rain, this match was truly a showcase of great one day cricket. In fact, I was seeing one day cricket in its highest class for the first time in the series. The outstanding toal of 318 set the scene and pressure for the Indians, who will always be destined to chase, with Dhoni never winning the tosses. But I'm happy because there's more thrill, finger biting, edge of the seat action.

The match had its brilliant mix of upsets and highlights for both teams. Gilly's and Sachin's quick wickets were dissappointing. Sehwag's and Yuvraj's lack of form was contrasted by Ponting and Symonds immense return with some big runs. While the Australian's hit some hefty sixers, India's efforts were never given up. Dhoni's superb catch to send Gilly of to the change roooms marked the start. Whilst some quick catches near the end, brought some light relief. What was expected to be a total of 350+ was quickly contained by the Indian Demi God to a more achievable 318.

The Indian innings started quite depressingly, with Sachin's quick wicket, which was followed by the collapse of the top order. Only Ghambir could find his bat against the ball and stood out to bat the Aussie bowlers. At 3/51 India was in trouble, but Dhoni, the lifesaver, created a steady partnership with Ghambir to turn the game around. Followed by Pathan and Ghambhir's partnership, India was not only showing hope, but a huge chance of winning. The crowd was ecstatic, as Ghambhir hit the triple figures. Only to be dismissed by some swift action from the amazing wicket keeper, Gilly. More than angry, I was only sad to see Ghambir walk off. By being just centremetres from the crease, Gambir's spell had been broken by Gilly. For him, I am sad, because if India had won, Ghambhir would have been the backbone of the victory. Yet Ghabhir's wicket brought about the interesting partnership of Uthappu and Pathan. The hopes rose again, as they stedily ploughed their way through. Even as Harbhajan entered, hopes were renewed with his belting of fours. But the ball count was ever decreasing and pressure saw the fall of india. The final balls were in the hands of two magnificent young bowlers. It was an amusing sight as Ishanth Sharma and Sreesanth batted the second last over.

The entertainment was not just in the batting by both teams, which included a flurry of fours and sixers. But it was in the non stop energy and spirit generated by both teams. India never gave up and up till 8th wicket it had a solid batting side, as well as some class bowlers. It was impressive to see the Indian side in such good condition. With a massive total, their play not only made it such a thriller, but it was the best entertainment provided of all games in the series played so far. If this is what magic teams can produce, I can't wait to see India and Australia battle it out in the finals! (If 299 is a score India can achieve without its top order, what doubt is there, that it can't beat Sri Lanka)

I can't finish without the comedy. Gilly's slide too early, to prevent a four was hilarious, as was Harbhajan's 2 run out wickets on the 2 last balls of the 2nd innings. Harbhajan's swallowing of dirt as he slided into the crease was just as hysterical.

I'd love to see more of such good cricket, as the runs and bowls start ticking. Just don't let the pressure get to you moi boys!