INDIA v AUSTRALIA 1956-57

At Madras, October 19, 20, 22, 23. Australia won by an innings and five runs. The Australians found the turf pitch much more to their liking than the matting at Karachi, and comfortably won the first Test to be played between the two countries in India. Excessive caution on the opening day had much to do with India's downfall. They gained a big advantage in winning the toss and batting on turf of easy pace, for Australia were sorely handicapped by mishaps to their pace bowlers. Miller, Archer and Davidson could not play because of injuries, and Lindwall retired with a stomach complaint after bowling five overs. Yet India scored only 117 for five in a full day, Crawford, the one remaining bowler of pace, and Benaud with leg-breaks rising to the occasion well. Benaud caused the last five wickets to tumble for 44 on the second day, and Australia, by consistent batting, took the lead with four wickets down. Even so, the accurate spin bowling of Ghulam Ahmed and Mankad gained such reward that eight men were out with the lead restricted to 39. Then Johnson and Crawford put on 87 for the ninth wicket in breezy style, and Langley helped Johnson in a further useful stand for the last wicket. Sustained fast bowling of high quality by Lindwall brought about India's downfall in their second innings. Fit again, Lindwall showed fine stamina and accuracy despite the heat, and Australia won with over a day to spare.