Dravid ‘frustrated’ at the batting collapse

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Senior Indian batsman Rahul Dravid, who scored his second consecutive century in the second Test against England here Saturday, said that he was ‘sort of frustrated’ with the way the visitors collapsed after being in a strong position.

Dravid (117) notched up his 34th century to equal Sunil Gavaskar's record but India lost six wickets for a mere 21 runs to be all out for 288 in their first innings and Dravid rued that India allowed the chance to take control of the Test slip away.

"It was sort of frustrating at the way we played. Look we were 267 for four but were reduced to 273 for eight," said Dravid who became the joint fourth highest century maker in Test cricket with Gavaskar.

"It was not easy for the guys though. The pitch was difficult to bat and the guys tried their best. We need to pull our socks and come up with some strong performance in the remaining three days," he said.

Dravid batted for more than six hours at the middle to anchor the Indian innings but said he was ‘pleasantly weary’ after his performance.

"It was tough conditions out there. It was a hot day. I had slight cramps towards the end of my innings. But I would say I am not tired but pleasantly weary," said the 38-year-old Indian batting mainstay.

"At the back of my mind, I think there is a lot of play left in the Test. We need strong performance in the remaining three days," he said.