India have taken lead of 24 runs against England on day two of the First Test in Mohali thanks to a century from Deep Dasgupta. The hosts had little difficulty in surpassing England's modest first innings total of 238 all out after the visitors managed to take just two wickets all day and at close of play they were on 262-3.
India had Dasgupta's batting to thank for their charge after the 23-year-old produced his first ever Test ton off 253 balls, including 15 fours. Afterwards, the wicket-keeper said he wanted to continue opening the batting following his successful takeover from the injured Sanjay Bangar. "It is not difficult to do both jobs," Dasgupta said. "It's all about fitness and I am confident I can do both." Dasgupta was also used as a temporary opener on the recent tour of South Africa.
Master batsman Sachin Tendulkar looked solid on 31 not out after surpassing 1,000 runs against England in only his 10th Test against them while Rahul Dravid remains unbeaten on 78.
Meanwhile, Australia must beat South Africa in their forthcoming three-match series to stay on top of the world standings after tying with New Zealand on today. The series between the trans-Tasman rivals ended in a tie after the third test in Perth was drawn. The first two tests were also drawn. Australia's points average dropped from 1.62 points to 1.54, giving South Africa the chance to overtake them in the official world rankings launched in May this year.
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
