Rajkot: In a gripping day of cricket, India battled their way to a commendable total of 326/5 against England in the ongoing Test match, with Rohit Sharma (131 off 196) and Ravindra Jadeja (110* off 212) playing pivotal roles.
India, after winning the toss, faced an early setback as Mark Wood claimed quick wickets, dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal (10 off 10) and Shubman Gill (0 off 9). Rajat Patidar’s dismissal on 5 off 15 balls further compounded India’s troubles, reducing them to 33/3 within 9 overs of play. However, Rohit Sharma, with a watchful start, gradually took charge and, despite a few nervy moments, reached his 17th Test fifty.
Jadeja, promoted to No. 5, joined forces with Rohit, forming a crucial partnership. The left-right combination added stability to the Indian innings, frustrating the English bowlers. The duo skillfully navigated through the second session, maintaining their wickets and building a solid foundation.
The third session witnessed a surge in aggression from Rohit and Jadeja, with Rohit achieving his 11th Test century. Just as their partnership looked poised to dominate, England struck with Rohit falling prey to a short-ball strategy, mistiming a pull off Wood to midwicket.
Sarfaraz Khan (62 off 66), a debutant, stepped up with a sprightly fifty, showcasing aggression against spinners and contributing to a vital 77-run stand with Jadeja. However, a miscommunication between the two led to Sarfaraz’s run-out, courtesy of a direct hit from Wood at mid-on. Despite the setback, Jadeja persevered and notched up his century, providing India a strong position at the end of the day.
England’s Mark Wood was the most successful bowler with figures of 3-69. The match promises more excitement as India aims to build on its current foundation, and England looks to make inroads on the second day.
Brief Scores: India 326/5 (Rohit Sharma 131, Ravindra Jadeja 110*, Sarfaraz Khan 62; Mark Wood 3-69) vs England