A quick round up of the past few days. You may be aware that no less than three Test matches recently concluded. Two of them, Aust v NZ and Pakistan v India saw some sublime performances. And the other match between South Africa and Zimbabwe was just ridiculous, as was the series.

In Australia’s eventually crushing victory over New Zealand, the bug guns were out: McGrath 6/115 and Warne 5/39 took the bowling honours, while it was MOTM Gillie (121) and the comeback man, Simon Katich (118) saving the day. I should not omit that the Kiwis had one sublime performer in Hamish Marshall (146), though I wonder if he has ever faced a decent leg-spinner prior to this Test. 2nd Test starts on Friday, in Wellington.

In Mohali, it was Kamran Akmal (becoming the second wicket keeper in 24 hours, to score a ton batting at no and Abdul Razzaq who saved Pakistan. Pakistan trailed by 204 on the first innings and slumped to 3-10 in their second and looked gone. They started recovered somewhat to start Day 5 just 53 in front and with just 4 wickets in hand. India must have had high hopes. By the time the 7th wicket fell, after a 204 run partnership, Pakistan were 203 in front. Inzi eventually declared, setting India 292 to win in next to no time. Not only did Pakistan salvage a draw, they probably just took the honours. 2nd Test starts on Thursday at Eden Gardens.

Thankfully, there is no 3rd Test between South Africa and Zimbabwe.