India's triumph against Zimbabwe in the Bulawayo Test was by no means an unexpected one. But looking at the current state of affairs of the Indian team, there were fears lurking that they could plunge further into darkness. After all, they almost succumbed to the minnow hosts in a one-dayer when they collapsed to 50-4.
 

Thankfully for India, things were pretty much in control (at least on the field). So Ganguly scored his much-awaited Test century against probably the worst attack in the world, Harbhajan made up for his lack of wickets at the international level this season and also enjoyed a productive stint with the bat while poor VVS Laxman dropped a hint at the selectors that he is good enough at least in the longer version of the game.
 

Though, the scorecard might tell you that the win was a mere cakewalk, Zimbabwe did have their moments, especially on the opening day. After their catastrophic batting efforts against New Zealand, everyone expected another collapse and a two-and-a-half day finish. But debutant Terrence Duffin certainly had other thoughts in mind. The youngster took good advantage of the lacklustre Indian attack that seemed highly ineffective even against a side that had been bowled out twice in a day only a few weeks back, a sad reflection of the present state of Team India. Duffin did not play any audacious shots but held one end up with his stoic defence on way to his well deserved half-century. Another batsman who impressed with his positive approach to batting was Keith Dabengwa. These two certainly were the silver linings for the hosts at Bulawayo.
 

However, the hero of the match for Zimababwe was undoubtedly their skipper Tatenda Taibu. This little giant, who has been thrust with the burdensome task of leading a near hopeless bunch, was on the field of play for almost the entire duration of the game, either batting with great determination or leading his side bravely with whatever limited resources he had at his disposal, not forfeiting his keeping duties. It certainly is unfair for someone who still looks like a kid out of school to be handed over so many responsibilities and as such, no praise is too high for this short-statured champion of Zimbabwe cricket. But there was only so much that he could do and in the end, it was not good enough for Zimababwe.
 

Pathan came back strongly on the second day to add yet another five-wicket haul to his bag. After that, the Indian top order feasted on the sub-standard opposition attack. However, many threw their wickets away after getting starts. Sehwag perished as one expected him to, swinging the bat only to be sent packing by Blessing Mahwire. Gambhir too did not grab his opportunity, while a well-set Dravid (77) was forced into a false stroke by some defensive field placings.
 

Fortunately Laxman, who's always been in the line of fire for some reason or the other, converted his start to a big score. He began hesitantly but after gaining confidence unleashed his wide repertoire of classy strokes. It took a mix-up with the skipper to bring an end to his pleasing knock. Meanwhile, the captain too managed to notch three figures, albeit most unimpressively. But at the end of the day, a Test century is a Test century and if it manages to reshape his dwindling career, nothing better for Indian cricket.
 

After raking up a huge lead, the Indians were confident enough of blowing up the Zims in quick time. Pathan, buoyed by his half-ton earlier in the day, knocked off the top order, a performance that earned him the Man of the match award. And though the lower order put up some resistance, a lethal Harbhajan, who completed 200 Test wickets in the game, was too hot too handle for the spin-weary Zimbabweans.
 

But even after winning the game, it doesn't seem the atmosphere would be a very happy one in the dressing room. There were so many controversies surrounding this Test. First and foremost, Mohammed Kaif, India's most consistent batsman this season by a long way, was made to sit out. Subsequently, stories regarding politics inside the team began floating around. And we've heard enough about the Chappell-Ganguly saga that could do a lot of harm to this already struggling team. With so much happening off the field, there was little significance given to the game, which was only of academic interest anyway.
 

India now more on to Harare where they have never won a Test. But considering the opposition, this very well might be their best chance to break the jinx. For that, all the players will have to leave their off-field tensions back in the dressing room. This is of course, easier said than done. Even if India do manage a victory at Harare, it won't be cause for celebration. But at least it would give them the satisfaction of ending the tour on a winning note.