After India’s monumental 434-run victory over England in Rajkot during the third Test, Rohit Sharma, the team’s captain, highlighted the significant contribution of the young players.
He commended their display of character and determination, emphasizing their ability to perform at the highest level and their desire to establish themselves in the team.
Rohit also underscored the importance of having a strong bench strength, which was evident throughout the series. Despite facing adversity early on in the match, with the team struggling at 33 for 3 in the first innings, Rohit expressed his satisfaction at their ability to bounce back and secure a convincing win.
This victory showcased the potential and promise of India’s emerging talents, indicating a bright future for the Test team. The performances of the young players not only contributed to the team’s success in the present but also hinted at sustained success and competitiveness in the long run.
India vs England 3rd Test Day 4 Highlights
Yashasvi Jaiswal, aged 22, achieved the distinction of becoming the third youngest cricketer to score two double hundreds. Vinod Kambli holds the record as the youngest, followed by Don Bradman as the second youngest.
Sarfaraz Khan, at 26 years old, capitalized on his Test debut by scoring two half-centuries. His impressive performance came after years of consistent displays in first-class cricket. Similarly, Shubman Gill, aged 24, began the series under pressure but managed to reverse his fortunes with a century in the final Test and a remarkable 91 in the second innings of the same Test.
This victory propels India to the second position in the World Test Championship (WTC) rankings, underlining their stature as a formidable Test cricketing nation.
Looking ahead, India will face England in the fourth Test at JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi from 23 February, aiming to maintain their momentum in the series.
Despite England’s efforts, including notable performances from Joe Root and Tom Hartley, they were unable to withstand India’s dominance.
Both teams’ playing XIs showcased their talent and determination, setting the stage for an enthralling contest in the upcoming matches of the series.
India and England Playing XI:
England: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes (C), Ben Foakes (w/k), Rehan Ahmed, Tom Hartley, Mark Wood, James Anderson
India: Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel (w/k), Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj
Key Highlights of the Day So Far:
- Resumption of Play: Shubman Gill and Kuldeep Yadav resumed batting at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, displaying comfort at the crease on the fourth day.
- Partnership Building: Shubman and Kuldeep guided India past a lead of 350 runs, with Shubman approaching a significant milestone as he entered the 80s.
- Shubman Gill’s Dismissal: Shubman Gill’s impressive innings came to an end at 91 due to a run-out caused by a moment of hesitation between him and Kuldeep, coupled with a precise throw from the England fielders.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Aggression: Yashasvi Jaiswal showcased his aggressive batting style after starting cautiously, asserting his dominance with a flurry of attacking shots.
- Sarfaraz Khan’s Contribution: Sarfaraz Khan joined Jaiswal at the crease and matched his aggression, forming a fruitful partnership and extending India’s lead beyond 440 runs.
- Sarfaraz Khan’s Half Century: Sarfaraz Khan completed his second half-century of the match, reaching the milestone off just 65 balls with a combination of boundaries and a six.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Double Century: Yashasvi Jaiswal achieved his double century off 231 balls, showcasing remarkable batting prowess. His feat places him in elite company, being only the third Indian after Vinod Kambli and Virat Kohli to hit back-to-back double centuries. Additionally, he joins the ranks of Indian legends who have scored double hundreds in the second innings for India. Notably, he also holds the record for the most sixes (12) in a Test innings globally.
Author
"Inquisitive mind, ink-stained fingers, and a heart set on uncovering stories. Navigating the labyrinth of words as a journalism student, weaving narratives...