2nd day pre-analysis: 1st hour of day 2 holds the key for Indians

A resolute and fighting century from Murali Vijay backed up by a resilient unbeaten half-century from Rahane has helped India to a 311/4 at the end of 1st days play at Gabba, Brisbane.

India needs to consolidate the position they are in today and the 1st hour holds the key. If India loose more than 1 wicket in this session, then all the good work done on day 1 will be squared off. All India can then do is face another defeat at the hands of Aussies.

Hazzlewood and Marsh have injured themselves and as mentioned in my earlier column, India needs to take the advantage of this awry bowling attack and consolidate the position by scoring a heavy 1st innings total. To do this, we have the two set batsman plus Dhoni and to a great extent Ashwin. To me, a score of 500 + should be considered safe for India.

Shikhar Dhawan has again failed inspite of the long rope given by the team management. He should be considered lucky to be in the team and he has done no good for his selection. Also as mentioned in my yesterdays column, Umesh Yadav and Ashwin have been selected for this match, which is a good move.