India bounced back sensationally to win the third Test in Perth inside four days - and deprive Australia of a record 17th successive Test victory.

The 72-run victory was one of India's most amazing Test triumphs overseas and it came after they had set Ricky Ponting's men the target of  413 runs to win.

In the event, Australia were all out for 340 and India can now draw the series by winning the fourth and final Test. And they'll be supported by a huge number of South Africans who have thrown their support behind much-loved Gary Kirsten in his new role as India's coach.

'Kirsten was a fundamental part of South African cricket - when the Proteas play in India it will be like playing against the late Bob Woolmer's Pakistan'


Not only does South Africa's multi-cultural society have a huge Indian community rejoicing at this success, the Kirsten fan club will be trumpeting the victory, too.

The Kirsten clan formed such an integral part of South Africa's cricketing history that the ties between India and South Africa must have doubled. South Africa, already with links to Gandhi and the largest Indian population in the world outside of India, will sing the praises of Anil Kumble's team while reserving some praise for Kirsten.

Kirsten was a fundamental part of South African cricket and when the Proteas play in India, it will be something like playing against the late Bob Woolmer's Pakistan.

India could not have picked a better man - he has already made a difference to the squad since his arrival in Perth.

Anyone who enjoys the cross-cultural vibe of cosmopolitan Durban will argue that the South African influence on the Indian team, through Kirsten, is like a curry delicately garnished with a serving of Mrs Ball's South African chutney.

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