Australian coach John Buchanan, a key figure in the team's record-breaking 16 consecutive Test victories, today complimented the Indian batsmen saying the fourth day's play was the "toughest day in my coaching career".

"The Indians had three or four good partnerships including the massive one for the fifth wicket which has put them in the driver's seat", Buchanan told newspersons after the day's play.

Admitting that he had not expected the Indians to stage such a magnificent comeback, Buchanan said "they were fragile in the first Test. They were also fragile at the Eden. It was mainly the effort of one player (Laxman) who played a long innings and saved the game".

The Australian coach described Laxman's marathon unfinished knock of 275 as one of the best innings he has ever seen. "He anchored the whole innings".

Asked whether his team still harbourd hopes of registering their 17th Test win on the trot, Buchanan said "Who knows? Considering the uncertain course of this Test, anything can happen. Cricket is a funny game". To another query whether Australia would play for a win in their second innings, Buchanan said that his team would first see the target before deciding.

Buchanan said it was a hard day for the Australians who were on the field for three days. "The players will rest, sleep and come back fresh tomorrow". On the feared Australian bowlers who failed to take a single wicket during the day, he said "they stuck to their task. That they did not succeed is a different matter".

© PTI