Harbhajan doubtful starter
28th October 2008
The big Test at Ferozeshah Kotla is almost upon us and the indicative contours of what is going to be a fascinating cricket match are firming up, after India and Australia had full-fledged practice for the second consecutive day on Monday.
The third Test starts on Wednesday with India leading the four-Test series 1-0. The hosts, who have a great chance of clinching the series here - remember, they have won the last seven Tests played at Kotla - were jolted by the news that off-spinner Harbhajan Singh was doubtful for the Test.
The feisty Sardar, always a thorn in Aussie flesh, suffered a toe injury late in the Mohali Test and the niggle has persisted.
Coach Gary Kirsten, who had no idea about the extent of the injury, could only hope that it was not too serious.
Harbhajan is a critical cog in the Indian wheel and could be more than a handful on the Kotla pitch which is expected to be spin-friendly, especially in the latter part of the Test. Besides, the Australians don’t particularly like the look of him as he reserves his best for them. Harbhajan did bowl and bat at the nets on Monday but only just. As per Kirsten, it’s wait and watch for now.
Source: Times of India