Bangalore, October 08: Wary of even a half-fit VVS Laxman, Australian captain Ricky Ponting today said that in case the Indian batsman plays the second cricket Test despite back spasm, he will not be allowed a “runner” if his injury begins to bother him during the match starting tomorrow.
Laxman struck an unbeaten 73 as India fought back from the brink of defeat to beat Australia by one wicket in a thrilling first Test in Mohali and Ponting, aware of their old nemesis’ potential, does not want to take any chances this time around.
“Learnt the lesson last week (Mohali Test). It can happen obviously. He (Laxman) comes to the game and had a runner. I actually look very faintly that it did not seem he was injured looking at the way he was batting.
“I am bit surprised that he had not batted today at the net session.
–Agencies