Winning the toss was crucial: Buchanan

With Australia poised to take a lead in the series, coach John Buchanan said winning the toss and batting first had worked in his team's favour.

With Australia poised to take a lead in the four-match series, coach John Buchanan on Saturday said winning the toss and batting first had worked in his team's favour in the first Test against India.

HT Image

Asked to single out the one strategy that placed his team in a formidable position, he said, "winning the toss. It was an important toss to win. Sometimes, it's important to have the right start to the series. The toss gave us the best opportunity to do that."

The coach also said the partnership between Gilchrist and Clarke had tilted the balance considerably in Australia's favour.

"The day one score of 316 for five was really a good position. The batting partnership between Gilchrist and Clarke gave us the opportunity to get 470. I think we got a good start to the series through this particular match..."

He also praised the bowlers for their effort.

"I am very very happy with all bowlers. They have done a fantastic job. The foundation (for a win) was laid by McGrath," he said.