India vs England 3rd Test Day 1: Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja Shine with Centuries
In the highly anticipated third Test match between India and England at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, it was a day filled with stellar performances, particularly from the Indian side. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, India got off to a shaky start, losing Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill early to the fiery pace of Mark Wood. However, skipper Rohit Sharma took charge and steadied the innings with a composed knock, despite losing Rajat Patidar to Tom Hartley.
The turning point of the innings came when Ravindra Jadeja was promoted up the order, forming a crucial partnership with Rohit Sharma. The duo stitched together a remarkable 204-run stand for the fourth wicket, frustrating the English bowlers with their resilience and strokeplay. Rohit Sharma, in particular, was in sublime touch as he notched up his 11th Test century, becoming the oldest Indian skipper to achieve this feat.
Meanwhile, Ravindra Jadeja played a vital supporting role, showcasing his all-round prowess with the bat. His gritty innings not only helped India consolidate their position but also saw him reach his fourth Test century, with a special mention to his familiarity with the Rajkot ground, where he has previously excelled.
As the day progressed, India’s middle-order batsman Sarfaraz Khan made a memorable Test debut, contributing with a composed half-century. His partnership with Ravindra Jadeja added further stability to the Indian innings, putting the hosts in a commanding position.
However, England fought back with quick wickets towards the end of the day, dismissing Sarfaraz Khan and breaking the formidable partnership between him and Jadeja. Despite the late setbacks, Ravindra Jadeja stood firm, reaching yet another milestone by surpassing 3000 Test runs in his career.
At stumps on Day 1, India concluded their innings at 326/5, with Ravindra Jadeja unbeaten on 110*, accompanied by Kuldeep Yadav at the crease. The Indian batsmen showcased resilience and determination throughout the day, frustrating the English bowlers and laying a solid foundation for the team.
Looking ahead, India will aim to build on their strong start and post a formidable total in the first innings, while England will be eager to make early inroads with the ball on Day 2. With the series finely poised, both teams will be eager to seize the momentum and assert their dominance in what promises to be an enthralling contest.
In team news, India handed Test debuts to Dhruv Jurel and Sarfaraz Khan, while welcoming back Mohammed Siraj and Ravindra Jadeja into the side. On the other hand, England opted for a balanced bowling attack, with Mark Wood and James Anderson leading the pace department, supported by spinners Rehan Ahmed, Tom Hartley, and skipper Joe Root.
As the battle between bat and ball unfolds in Rajkot, cricket enthusiasts can expect more twists and turns in this intriguing Test match, as both teams vie for supremacy on the international stage.
The Day 1 of the 3rd Test between India and England at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot saw India finish strong at 326/5, bolstered by a magnificent 204-run partnership between Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja. Sharma, the Indian skipper, notched up his 11th Test century, scoring a commanding 131 before falling to Mark Wood. Jadeja, on the other hand, remained unbeaten at 110, marking his 4th Test century and achieving a personal milestone of 3000 Test runs. The day began with India opting to bat, but they faced early setbacks with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill departing cheaply. However, Sharma and Jadeja’s resilient batting steadied the innings. Sarfaraz Khan also made a significant contribution with a brisk 62, marking a promising debut. England’s bowlers, particularly Mark Wood, managed to create some impact but struggled to dismantle India’s middle order fully. The match promises more excitement as it progresses, with both teams looking to gain the upper hand.