Indians start sojourn on a winning note
Ashish Shukla in Randjesfontein (Johannesburg)
The Indians started their South African tour on a winning note with two of their star players, who returned after injuries, making a major contribution in the five wicket win against Nicky Oppenheimer XI in Randjesfontein on Monday.
Anil Kumble, returning to international cricket after almost a year due to a shoulder injury, took two wickets while Sachin Tendulkar, who missed the tour of Sri Lanka due to a toe injury, made 45 runs as India overhauled the hosts' 244 for three in 48.1 overs.
In a match that did not have any toss or restrictions on the number of overs, the Indians defied tradition by asking the home team to bat first.
The Indian bowlers, except Kumble, took a hammering on a good batting track with a brilliant 109 by Jacques Rudolph helping the Oppenheimer XI to a good total. The home team declared their innings after batting for 52 overs.
Every Indian batsman including captain Sourav Ganguly then gave a good account of himself scoring decent runs as the visitors carved out a comfortable victory.
Mail Cricket Editor
