India Crushes England in Rajkot:
The air crackled with excitement at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot as India thrashed England by a mammoth 434 runs in the third Test, claiming a crucial 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Chasing an improbable 557 for victory, England’s batting order crumbled under the Indian bowling attack, dismissed for a paltry 122 on day four.
England could only score 122 runs in the second innings.
James Anderson 1
Jasprit Bumrah 1/18(8)
Mohammed Siraj 0/16(5)
Ravindra Jadeja 5/41(12.4)
Kuldeep Yadav 2/14(7)
Ravichandran Ashwin 1/13(5)
Dominant Indian Batting Sets the Stage:
India crushes England and riding high after their victory in the second Test, continued their dominance with the bat in Rajkot. Openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul laid a solid foundation with a century partnership, while young Yashasvi Jaiswal smashed a brilliant hundred in the second innings. The Indian middle-order chipped in with valuable contributions, taking the total to a mammoth 577, declaring with a lead of 556.
England’s Woes Deepen:
England’s chase got off to a disastrous start, losing both openers cheaply. The spin duo of Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel wreaked havoc, picking up wickets at regular intervals and exposing the fragile English batting line-up. The visitors were bundled out for just 122, with only Joe Root offering some resistance with a fighting 30.
Key Players Shine in India crushed England
- Ravindra Jadeja: The all-rounder was the star of the show, claiming a match haul of 9 wickets, including a fifer in the second innings. His accurate spin bowling and crucial lower-order runs proved invaluable for India.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal: The young opener announced his arrival on the big stage with a swashbuckling century in the second innings. His aggressive batting put India in a commanding position.
- Mohammed Shami: The pace spearhead took 3 wickets in the first innings, setting the tone for the Indian bowling attack.
Looking Ahead:
With a 2-1 lead in the series, India is in a strong position to claim victory. The fourth Test will be played in Ranchi from February 23rd, and England will need a monumental effort to turn the tide.
Talking Points:
- Will England be able to bounce back in Ranchi?
- Can India continue their dominant form and seal the series win?
- Will we see further young talents like Jaiswal emerge for India?
This emphatic victory has ignited the passion of Indian cricket fans, and all eyes will be on Ranchi as the two teams battle it out for series supremacy. What are your thoughts on the third Test and the remaining matches? Share your comments below!