Chennai, December 14:

Virender Sehwag smashed a quickfire 83 off 68 balls as India made a spirited start in their chase of a history-defying target in the first Test against England here today.

The hosts ended the fourth day at 131-1 in their second innings after being set 387 to win by England. England declared their second innings at 311-9 soon after tea, the total revolving around Andrew Strauss’ second century (123) in the match and 108 from Paul Collingwood.

Sehwag hit 11 fours and four sixes in a whirlwind opening stand of 117 with Ga-utam Gambhir (not out 41).