The second test has produced another batting paradise, at least judging from the first 2 days' play. I read that the pitch has started showing variable bounce and that means the total of 588 may be a good one. But India at 110-1 should have confidence of at least putting up a decent first innings total so that draw becomes the only possibility.

So while the rest of the world has moved in the direction of result-friendly pitches, Pakistan, probably hurting from the last Indian tour, has decided to be as defensive as possible and have 0-0 as a better result of the series than anything else. And that is sad because test match crcket has become very exciting and entertaining after going through a dull 90’s. Such pitches don’t help in creating more interest in the game. Results are not critical, though important. What is more important is to see batsmen and bowlers having a chance at any point to win the match for their team. An equal contest is good to watch even if it results in a draw.

Tonight is going to be interesting and see how Indian batsmen face up on Day 3.