Bangalore: With no likely chance of an outcome, the West Indians on Sunday preferred to have some extra batting practice ahead of the first Test against India piling up 549 for four at tea on the final day of the three-day game against the Board President's XI. At the break, the visitors had taken a first innings lead of 274 with Ryan Hinds batting on 53 and Ridley Jacobs on 18. Ramnaresh Sarwan, who was unbeaten on 117 at lunch, retired mid-way through the second session apparently to give a chance to the other batsmen to get some time in the middle. Sarwan made 140 with the help of 18 fours and a six as the West Indian batsmen continued to torment the host bowling. Skipper Carl Hooper, who came in to bat at the fall of Shivnarine Chanderpaul's wicket, hit a quick fire 67 of 73 balls. Hooper, who was in an attacking mood, punished all the bowlers, particularly Amit Mishra, who was on Saturday included in the Indian squad for the first two Tests of the series against the Caribbean players. Extras:
Sarwan scores century, Windies 438/4 at lunch
Thatscricket Special: West Indies Quest of India