Despite being in the dressing room for most of the Indian innings due to severe calf and hamstring cramps, Indian skipper Rahul Dravid showed a big smile and sense of humour too. The 160-run win meant an avalanche of positives before the Sri Lankan series and clarity about World Cup team composition.

Such was the mood at the post-match press conference that even the repeatedly asked irritating question — how long will the experiments continue? — saw a deadpan Dravid reply, “As long as we need.” When asked if he was relieved seeing Tendulkar being among runs at No 4, he was almost in splits.

“It was never a concern for the team management, so there is no question of being relieved. But the thing is, now even those who were concerned should relax,” Dravid said.

And, as an afterthought, he added with a naughty smile: “But then what will we talk about? Maybe you guys will find something else,” he added.

But that exercise will be a real brain teaser in case one goes by today’s proceeding. There wasn’t one foot laid wrong. Read on:

• Robin Uthappa once again proved that he remains the top contender to be Sourav Ganguly’s partner at the top of the order. His 28 from 17 balls meant India had scored 47 from 6.3 overs.

• Sourav Ganguly showed he can pull the short ball over the fence with the same elan he drives through the covers. Ironically he missed his favourite ‘stepping out lofted shot’ to be stumped but after his 82 balls 68 he had done the job.

... contd.