Australia vs India, 2nd Test at Sydney, , Jan 03 2012 - Ball by Ball Commentary

4.30pm: The presentation is being delayed for some reason. We can confirm that Clarke is the Man of the Match. (No kidding, Sherlock!)

Dhoni: "We were down in the first session on the first day. A few batsman got out to good deliveries. It was very difficult to contain Clarke. We can beat this team in Perth." Dhoni keeps it very simple.

Clarke: "It was a tough wicket to take 10 wickets but our bowlers were brilliant. I've spoken about consistency and our guys are doing that now. In any team you need experience and youth and I think now this Australian team has it. I was as relieved as Punt (Ponting). His attitude around the group has been exceptional. It (Sachin's wicket) is a

very handy one to have."

Also, check out Ian Chappell's comments here.

That's just about it from here. Thanks for all the mails. Lot of emotions and mock obituaries in some of those! There's a week to recover for the WACA. For the benefit of Indian readers, the toss is at 8am. More manageable times. Cheers guys!

*****

Jarrod Kimber (the better half or other half of the Two Chucks, however you call it), tweets: "This series is already looking like an American remake of a cooler European film I saw 6 months ago."

Sidvee tweets: "Just imagine if India had won 4-0 in England and were up 2-0 in Aus. You would have read reams and reams about the Fletcher effect."

Australia record one of their most comprehensive wins of late. They stumbled at Hobart after a thumping win, but this time they went one step higher. Exposes India's weaknesses even more, and that's a discussion for another day, and that will take the entire day.

Clarke, Hussey and Ponting all had statements to make, and they picked a historic venue to deliver them. Australian cricket can smile after a ego-crushing summer last year when they were thrashed by England.

Three years back, India were in a similar situation, going 0-2 down at the SCG before hitting back at Perth. They weren't meant to lose that second Test but this time, they deserved what they got. Which makes the recovery all the more difficult. There's another week left for that. Lots of time for introspection/team changes.

Jyotishman Sharma: "No matter what is happening, i will remain a die- hard Indian cricket fan. But my team is not doing no good my giving me sleepless nights. But i still hope! I know the good days are not far away."

For Australia, one certain change is Harris in for Lyon. The other question mark revolves around Marsh. Lifeline for Khawaja perhaps. Not sure if the knives are out yet for Haddin.

Ashwin delays the inevitable

India's next target - 400

Justin: "Replacemant Keeper for Haddin would have to be Matthew Wade from Victoria. Has great hands and can bat!." Roger suggested Ronchi and Paine.