It was quite a day. Pakistan piled on the runs, but not as many as they could have or they would have liked to. Getting Inzy early in the day was a big boost because he is the kind of guy who can take you apart without you realizing it. Younis Khan on the other hand, simply motored on.

Bhajji was bowling well, but wickets were not falling in heaps. For India, the problem was smaller partnerships all the time. For Pakistan, the problem was after Youhana/Younis' 84-run partnership, there was no other large partnership.

All in all, Pakistan should back themselves now for pushing a win because 570 is plenty of runs, even though they may have hoped for 625-650. India needs 370 just to avoid the follow on!

Sehwag and Gambhir put up yet another 50-run opening wicket partnership, and of late, with Indian opening wicket partnerships going well into the 80-90+ run range, we really need to look hard at Sehwag’s contribution. Chancey, he is. But no one can ignore the fact that if it not were for him, India would not be able to cross the 50-run mark without losing a wicket, and of course, not be able to put up 100 runs in a session regularly.

For day 3, the key to India is to avoid the follow on, put on some partnerships, and get to 350 or so without much loss. It only needs 100+ run partnerships for the first few wickets and India can be there. If the pitch does not deteriorate much, I think this test is headed for a tame draw.

But the X factor is Arshad Khan. He is tall and will (should be able to) get good bounce on the wicket and cause trouble, with fielders around the bat. Watch out for him tomorrow.