Rain pushes second Test to dreary finish

BENGALURU: For the first time in three days, the dark clouds notwithstanding, there was hope of some play in the second Test between India and South Africa here. But after three inspections and the promise of a 2pm start on Tuesday, the penultimate day ended without a ball being played.
Umpires Ian Gould and Richard Kettleborough, who took a close look at the soggy patches during the first inspection, especially in the mid-off region, decided to return at 11.30am for another round of scrutiny.While there wasn't much improvement in the conditions, the groundsmen continued to work. An inspection at 1pm indicated at a 2pm start and play was to go on until 5.15pm with a provision of a half-hour extension if the weather and light were conducive.
Hoping to watch their favourite players in action, over 1,000 children joined a motley group of optimistic fans. The drums and chants from spectators continued until play was called off at 2.30 pm. For the first time in two days, the players too worked out .The Indians came out for a while with Shikhar Dhawan, Murali Vijay, Ajinkya Rahane and Varun Aaron getting some batting practice at the nets. Post-lunch, led by Virat Kohli, the rest of the team got down to a game of touch football for about 45 minutes.