Takale, in spite of heavy rain and turbulent weather, stormed into the overall lead thanks to some accurate navigation from partner and navigator Musa Sharief.
The 2-wheel driver, in the midst of rain-drenched difficult Australian terrain, cautiously drove his Proton Satria Neo car with a sole aim of securing his position in the A6 class.
The heavy downpour had rendered the track slippery which made the task all the more difficult. However, with Sherif providing accurate notes and Sanjay driving to his potential, the Indian pair succeeded in its mission.
"It is just unbelievable to lead APRC in 2-wheel drive midway through the season. Our overall second in Australia has put us ahead by one point in the championship. And with three more rounds still to go it is any body's game," said the elated driver after returning home on Tuesday.
With the current standing, there is a fair possibility for this Indian driver to claim a podium finish.
The MRU Motorsports team was also happy with the performance of their cars. It was MRU Motorsports' first APRC championship in Australia.
The next event of 2012 APRC Rally is in Malaysia from July 13 to 15.
