Ganguly's presence boosts India A batting

Sourav Ganguly's presence in the India A squad for the second and final Test against New Zealand A has turned an otherwise low-key affair - against the backdrop of larger issues in Indian cricket - into a mini spectacle. This match in Chennai is the only opportunity for Ganguly, who has not played competitive cricket for over a month, to hit form ahead of the first Test against Australia in Bangalore on October 9.

Ganguly, included in the 15-member squad for the first two Tests against Australia, had requested he be included for this match after being overlooked for the Irani Cup.

India A lead the series following a 129-run win in the first Test, also in Chennai. However, their batting is a bit of a concern. Bar Suresh Raina's second-innings century, and knocks of 45 and 57 from No. 3 M Vijay, India A's batting struggled. Ganguly's presence, against a relatively innocuous bowling attack, thus boosts the side.

For the tourists, hammered in the tri-series also involving Australia, the last game of the tour offers the proverbial chance to save face. New Zealand started their tour promisingly, beating Australia by 129 runs in their first one-dayer, but have lost four games since then. They were in a good position on day one of the first Test, reaching 36 for 0 after bowling India out for 248. However, they only made 230 and then, chasing 355, folded for 225.