Gambhir, Pujara slam tons as India A take firm control

HUBLI: Former India opener Gautam Gambhir signaled a return to form, with a patiently crafted 123 as India 'A' took control on the second day of the third and final 'Test' against West Indies 'A' at the Hubli KSCA ground on Thursday. Cheteshwar Pujara too worked his way into form with an unbeaten 139 to guide India to 334 for three in 95 overs in reply to West Indies' first innings total of 268.
The day belonged to Gambhir and Pujara who forged a 207-run stand for the second wicket. Gambhir displayed wonderful temperament during his 308-minute stay in the middle, weathering the West Indian pace and spin attack. Dumped after India's home series against England earlier this year, this tie was Gambhir's final chance to find form before the forthcoming matches against Australia and West Indies. Gambhir seized the opportunity in style.
Coming off a poor show in the previous Test in Shimoga, the diminutive left-hander showed glimpses of his old self with a delightful knock to entertain the 12000-strong crowd. Gambhir was prepared to wait for the loose balls but also didn't lose out on opportunities to take singles to keep up the run-rate as India aim for an outright win.
The Delhi batsman reached his fifty with seven boundaries before reaching the three-figure mark off 195 balls. He was finally dismissed by part-time spinner Narsingh Deonarine.
At the other end, Pujara started on a cautious note but as the session progressed the right-hander opened out gradually. The Saurashtra cricketer reached his 21st first class hundred when he slammed a Nikta Miller delivery to the off-side boundary. Virender Sehwag, in is usual aggressive mood, raced to 38 off 49 balls before being pouched by Ahsley Nurse off Miller.
Brief scores: West Indies A 268 all out vs India A 334 for 3 i (Gautam Gambhir 123, Cheteshwar Pujara 139 batting, Virender Sehwag 38)