Tales of triples

Brian Lara is a better batsman than Virender Sehwag. But when it comes to triple tons, Sehwag has done a better job. Both of Lara's triple tons came in the tests when the rubbers were already decided (and both came at home). Sehwag's first triple ton came in the first test of a series, and not just any series and any test at that. It was India's first test series against Pakistan after umpteen years, the test was being played in Pakistan. And with all the drama that is associated with India-Pakistan cricket. And on the very first day itself, Sehwag scored 228. The next day he went on to 309 and set up a win. And now, in this test, once again, it's the first test of a series (at home, yes) against a high-quality test attack, and India were batting facing a total of 540. Its a dodo of a track, but facing 540 is never easy, especially when you know that in a three-test series, losing the first test can be a knockout punch.

This match might still be drawn (and indeed, I think its the most likely result, as I don't think the South African batsmen will be pushovers, and the rain might still show up) but if India don't put any pressure on the South African batsmen, they will have wasted a precious opportunity to score vital cricketing and mental points off them. The fact that we are even talking about this should tell you how much of an influence this innings has had.