Jadeja, KL Rahul Injured and Sarfaraz called up; Kohli’s return uncertain; Mayank Agarwal hospitalised; Jaiswal 200 help India dominate England
Jasprit Bumrah Reprimanded for ICC Code of Conduct Breach in Hyderabad Test
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India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has been officially reproved for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the first Test against England at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. The incident occurred on the fourth day of the Test, contributing to India’s unexpected 28-run loss in the opening match of the five-game series.
Bumrah’s Offence and Official Reprove
During the 81st over of England’s second innings, Bumrah intentionally obstructed Ollie Pope as the batsman attempted a single, resulting in inappropriate physical contact. The India fast bowler, who claimed six wickets in the Hyderabad Test, was found guilty of breaching Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct, specifically addressing inappropriate physical contact during an international match.
While this is Bumrah’s first offence in the last 24 months, the ICC did not impose a monetary fine. However, one demerit point has been added to the 30-year-old’s record. The charge was brought forward by on-field umpires Paul Reiffel and Chris Gaffaney, third umpire Marais Erasmus, and fourth umpire Rohan Pandit.
Penalties for Code of Conduct Breach
For breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct, the minimum penalty is an official reprimand, and the maximum is 50% of a player’s match fee, along with one or two demerit points. In this case, Bumrah’s prompt acceptance of guilt spared him from a formal hearing, and Richie Richardson of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees imposed the reprimand.
The second Test of the series is scheduled to commence on February 2 at the Dr. Y.S. Rajashekar Reddy ACA-VDCA International Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. India will seek a strong comeback after their historic loss in Hyderabad, marking the first-ever defeat in a Test match in the country after taking a first-innings lead of more than 100 runs.
Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul Ruled Out of Second Test Against England Due to Injuries
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Team India faces a setback as all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and batsman KL Rahul are ruled out of the second Test against England, set to commence on February 2 in Visakhapatnam. Both players sustained injuries during the first Test in Hyderabad, contributing to India’s unexpected 28-run loss. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed their absence and announced replacements for the upcoming match.
Injuries and Replacement Players
Jadeja suffered a hamstring injury during the fourth day of the Hyderabad Test, while Rahul complained of pain in his right quadriceps. To fill the void, the BCCI has added middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan, left-arm spinner Saurabh Kumar, and all-rounder Washington Sundar to India’s squad.
Saurabh Kumar, the left-arm spinner from Uttar Pradesh with an impressive first-class record of 290 wickets at 24.41, has previously been part of the India Test squad during their tour of Bangladesh in December 2022. Despite being yet to make his debut, Saurabh Kumar comes into the squad in excellent form, recently securing a five-wicket haul in India A’s innings win over England Lions.
Sarfaraz Khan, known for his prolific first-class performances, boasts an average of 69.85 with 14 centuries in 45 games. His recent knock of 161 in the same India A match highlights his consistent form.
Impact on India’s Lineup
The absence of Jadeja and Rahul poses a significant challenge for India as they aim to bounce back from their recent defeat. Virat Kohli continues to be unavailable for personal reasons, further weakening India’s lineup.
Jadeja’s contribution with both bat and ball has been crucial for India, averaging over 40 with the bat and under 25 with the ball in Test matches since 2016. Replacing him might prove challenging for the Indian team.
While Rajat Patidar, added to the squad after Kohli’s withdrawal, is expected to take Rahul’s place in the middle order, finding a like-for-like replacement for Jadeja remains a puzzle. Washington Sundar, with his all-round abilities, may step in, but replicating Jadeja’s significant bowling workload will be a test.
Sarfaraz Khan Receives Maiden Call-Up as India Names Replacements for Injured Rahul and Jadeja
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In a surprising turn of events, India’s Test squad for the second match against England sees the inclusion of Sarfaraz Khan, who receives his maiden call-up. The joyous news follows setbacks for the Indian team as KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja have been ruled out due to injuries sustained in the opening Test in Hyderabad.
Injury Woes for Key Players
The absence of Jadeja, who suffered a hamstring injury on Day 4 of the Hyderabad Test, and Rahul, complaining of pain in his right quadriceps, poses a considerable challenge for India as they aim to level the series. The team management acted swiftly, naming three replacements for the crucial encounter.
Fans expressed their delight as Sarfaraz Khan, who has been impressing in the Ranji Trophy for several years, earned his maiden call-up to the Indian Test team. There had been ongoing discussions and debates surrounding Sarfaraz’s exclusion despite his stellar performances in domestic cricket.
Sarfaraz Khan’s inclusion is backed by his outstanding performances in the Ranji Trophy. The batter emerged as the top scorer in the 2022 season, amassing 982 runs. His consistent run-scoring in the 2019/20 season, where he scored 928 runs, further solidified his case for a place in the national squad.
Impactful India A Performance
Sarfaraz showcased his form and prowess in a recent tour match against England Lions while representing India A. In the only innings played by India A, Sarfaraz delivered a stellar performance, scoring a remarkable 161. His contributions earned him the player of the match award and played a crucial role in India A’s victory by an innings and 16 runs.
The exclusion of Sarfaraz Khan from the Test team had sparked debates regarding the selection criteria and the importance of the Ranji Trophy in shaping the national squad. The inclusion of Sarfaraz, along with spinner Sourabh Kumar, in the second Test provides an answer to some of these discussions.
Virat Kohli’s Return Uncertain as India Faces Injury Woes Ahead of Second Test Against England
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India’s star batter, Virat Kohli, who opted out of the first two Test matches against England due to ‘personal reasons,’ has not provided clarity on his return for the remaining three matches, as per a report by Times Of India. The uncertainty looms large as the Indian team grapples with the absence of key players.
No Word From Kohli on Possible Return
Despite speculations about Virat Kohli’s return for the later part of the Test series, a BCCI official mentioned, “We haven’t heard anything from him on his return as yet,” speaking to TOI on the condition of anonymity. The absence of the Indian skipper has raised questions about the team’s batting strength and leadership on the field.
Adding to India’s challenges, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja will be missing from the second Test starting February 2 due to injuries. Rahul, who injured his thigh during the first Test, might return later in the series, but Jadeja’s hamstring injury is deemed ‘more serious,’ potentially sidelining him for the remaining matches.
Rahul’s Possible Return, Jadeja’s Uncertain Future
The report suggests that while KL Rahul could make a comeback in the ongoing series, Jadeja’s injury poses a more significant concern. The final decision will hinge on the assessment from the NCA’s medical team. The uncertainty surrounding key players raises concerns for India as they seek to bounce back from the defeat in the first Test against England.
In response to the injury setbacks, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the inclusion of Sarfaraz Khan, Saurabh Kumar, and Washington Sundar in India’s squad. The trio will join the team ahead of the second Test in Visakhapatnam.
As KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja undergo medical evaluation, the BCCI medical team is closely monitoring their progress. The extent of their injuries will play a crucial role in determining when these players can make a return to the playing XI.
Mayank Agarwal Hospitalised in Agartala After Mid-Flight Medical Emergency
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Karnataka captain Mayank Agarwal found himself in the midst of a medical emergency on Tuesday when he was rushed to a private hospital in Agartala. The cricketer complained of stomach pain and a burning sensation in his throat and mouth after consuming liquid from a bottle he believed contained drinking water, while onboard an IndiGo flight.
In-Flight Emergency Raises Concerns
The incident unfolded during Agarwal’s journey from Agartala to Surat, with a layover in New Delhi, as he headed for Karnataka’s fifth-round Ranji Trophy fixture against Railways. Following the consumption of the liquid, Agarwal experienced discomfort and bouts of vomiting inside the aircraft, leading to the decision to deplane him and seek immediate medical attention.
While Agarwal is reported to be out of immediate danger, the full extent of his medical condition is yet to be ascertained. The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) is coordinating with officials from the Tripura Cricket Association (TCA) and the attending medical team to gather updates on Agarwal’s health.
Mayank Agarwal is slated to undergo a series of medical tests, which will aid in determining whether he can return to Bengaluru for further examination in the next few days. The situation casts doubt on his availability for the upcoming Ranji Trophy fixture, given the need for comprehensive medical evaluation.
IndiGo Flight’s Official Statement
IndiGo, in an official statement, confirmed the in-flight medical emergency: “IndiGo flight 6E 5177 operating from Agartala to Delhi returned to origin due to a medical emergency onboard. The passenger was offloaded and was rushed to the hospital for further medical assistance. The aircraft took off again for its destination at 1620h.”
Mayank Agarwal has been a standout performer for Karnataka in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season, amassing two centuries and a half-century. However, the unexpected turn of events has cast uncertainty over his participation in the crucial fixture against Railways.
With Agarwal’s unavailability, the responsibility of leading the team is likely to fall on Nikin Jose, the 23-year-old batter designated as the vice-captain in the squad. Karnataka, currently placed second in Group C, faces a challenge in the absence of their regular captain.
Rishabh Pant Recalls Near-Fatal Car Accident: Triumph Over Adversity
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In a gripping revelation, Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant opened up about the horrifying incident that unfolded on December 30, 2022, when his Mercedes SUV caught fire during a journey from New Delhi to Roorkee. Recounting the chilling moments, Pant admitted that he briefly felt like his “time in this world was up.”
Severe Injuries and Road to Recovery
The accident left Pant with injuries to his head, back, and feet, including two cuts on his forehead. He also suffered a ligament tear in his right knee, along with injuries to his right wrist, ankle, and toe, accompanied by abrasions to his back. Plastic surgery was required to address facial injuries, lacerations, and abrasions. Despite the severity of the injuries, Pant displayed remarkable resilience on his path to recovery.
As part of Star Sports’ ‘Believe’ series, which highlights real heroes overcoming challenges to become champions, Pant reflected on the traumatic experience. “First time in my life I felt like my time in this world was up. During the accident, I was aware of the wounds, but I was lucky as it could have been even more serious. I felt that someone saved me. I asked the doctor how long it would take for me to recover, he said it would take 16-18 months. I knew I had to work hard to cut this recovery time,” shared Pant in the interview.
From Despair to Redemption
More than a year after the life-threatening accident, Pant has made a remarkable recovery and is on the verge of making his return to cricketing action. His journey from the brink of despair to the pinnacle of success stands as a testament to his indomitable spirit and determination.
In the unpredictable realm of sports, stories of triumph often emerge from adversity. Rishabh Pant’s narrative serves as an inspiration to millions, showcasing how resilience, courage, and a relentless work ethic can propel an individual from the depths of despair to newfound heights of success.
Tripura Police Investigate Mayank Agarwal’s In-Flight Health Scare
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Indian cricketer Mayank Agarwal found himself at the centre of a health emergency while on a flight from Agartala to Surat via New Delhi. The Tripura police swiftly launched an investigation into the incident, which led to Agarwal being rushed to a private hospital in Agartala on Tuesday. Reports indicate that he is “clinically stable” and is currently under treatment.
Case Registered by Tripura Police
The New Capital Complex police station registered a case after Mayank Agarwal, also serving as the captain of the Karnataka Ranji trophy team, complained of irritation in his mouth and throat. The discomfort arose after he consumed a liquid, which he believed to be water, from a bottle before the aircraft took off. The case was filed based on the statement provided by Agarwal’s manager, Ramesh Rao.
Prompt action was taken as soon as Agarwal reported the health scare. He was immediately deboarded from the flight and rushed to a private hospital for medical attention. West Tripura Superintendent of Police Kiran Kumar visited the cricketer at the hospital and engaged in discussions with Rao.
Hospital Statement on Agarwal’s Condition
In a statement, the hospital provided an update on Agarwal’s condition, stating, “This evening, cricketer Mr. Mayank Agarwal was transported from the MBB Airport Agartala to ILS Hospitals Agartala. He was experiencing some oral irritation and swelling on his lips. After being assessed by the consultants of the hospital in an emergency, he was admitted. For now, he’s clinically stable and is being constantly clinically monitored.”
Agarwal, the captain of the Karnataka Ranji trophy team, recently led his side to victory against Tripura in a Ranji Trophy match on Monday. The cricketer has played 21 Test innings for India, showcasing his prowess on the international stage. Notably, he is also the son-in-law of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) chief Praveen Sood.
Sri Lanka to Host ICC Annual General Meeting in July After Suspension Lifted
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Sri Lanka is set to host the International Cricket Council (ICC) Annual General Meeting in July after the suspension on Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) was lifted. The announcement was made by the country’s Sports Minister, Harin Fernando, signalling a significant turnaround for Sri Lankan cricket.
SLC Suspension and Consequences
Sri Lanka Cricket faced suspension in November due to government interference in its operations. The suspension resulted in Sri Lanka losing the opportunity to host the ongoing Under-19 World Cup in South Africa. The ICC penalised SLC for not meeting its member obligations, particularly in failing to independently manage its affairs and preventing government interference in cricket regulation and administration.
The lifting of the suspension brings relief to Sri Lanka as it prepares to host the ICC AGM from July 19-22 in Colombo. Minister Harin Fernando expressed optimism, stating, “This will be a great boost for Sri Lanka with regards to cricket and tourism.” The ICC AGM presents an opportunity for Sri Lanka to showcase its cricketing capabilities and attract cricket enthusiasts and tourists.
Interim Committee Controversy
The suspension was triggered when Roshan Ranasinghe, the predecessor of Minister Fernando, appointed an interim committee citing corruption within SLC. The committee, led by former World Cup-winning captain Arjuna Ranatunga, faced criticism from the ICC, which deemed the appointment a serious breach of its governance rules.
In December, Minister Fernando took decisive action by annulling the gazette issued by Ranasinghe. This move was instrumental in resolving the governance issues raised by the ICC. Consequently, Sri Lanka Cricket’s suspension was lifted on Sunday, allowing the country to resume its active participation in international cricket affairs.
Shoaib Bashir to Debut as England Makes Spin Move for Second Test Against India
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Off-spinner Shoaib Bashir is set to make his debut for England in the second Test against India in Visakhapatnam, replacing the injured Jack Leach. Bashir, 20, caught the attention of England captain Ben Stokes through a video posted on Twitter, showcasing his impressive bowling skills. Despite having played only six first-class matches, England sees Bashir’s height and spin capabilities as assets, hoping he will contribute positively in the challenging conditions of India.
Stokes Backs Bashir for a Strong Performance
Stokes expressed his full support for Bashir, stating, “I’m fully backing him and looking forward to him hopefully putting on a show.” The natural variation in Bashir’s deliveries, coupled with his height and spin, makes him a unique addition to England’s spin department. With Tom Hartley’s impactful performance in the first Test, England is again fielding three frontline spinners, demonstrating their strategy for the challenging Indian conditions.
The injury-plagued English side faces the absence of Jack Leach, who suffered a knee injury during the first Test. The experienced James Anderson comes in for Mark Wood, adding a wealth of experience to the pace attack. At 41 years and 187 days, Anderson is set to become the oldest seamer ever to bowl in a Test match in India, marking his 22nd consecutive year of playing at least one Test.
Pitch Analysis: England’s XI Decision
Ahead of the second Test, Stokes, vice-captain Ollie Pope, and coach Brendon McCullum carefully examined the Visakhapatnam pitch. While it is not expected to offer as much turn as the Hyderabad surface, it is visibly drying out. Stokes emphasised the importance of backing their decisions in team selection, particularly given the positive impact their spinners had in the first Test.
India, too, faces challenges with injuries, losing all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and batter KL Rahul since the first Test. The absence of star batter Virat Kohli, pace bowler Mohammed Shami, and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant further complicates India’s lineup. Despite the defeat in the first Test, India’s home record remains formidable, having lost only four out of 47 home matches. England, however, remembers the challenges of their 2021 tour when they won the first Test but lost the last three.
Major Injury Concerns with Ravindra Jadeja Ahead of Second Test Against England
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As Team India braces for the second Test against England in Visakhapatnam, the injury crisis seems to have reached unprecedented levels. The absence of key players, including Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, and Mohammed Shami, casts a shadow over India’s prospects in the ongoing series. With the Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid combination grappling with the Ben Stokes-led England team, the challenges ahead are daunting.
Jadeja’s Extended Absence Raises Concerns
Ravindra Jadeja, dealing with a hamstring injury, may face a more prolonged recovery period than initially anticipated. While hamstring issues typically require four to eight weeks for healing, insiders suggest that Jadeja might miss the upcoming Tests, making his availability uncertain even for the fourth Test in Ranchi. The recent BCCI release mentions his absence only for the second Test, leaving fans anxious about the star all-rounder’s return.
Mohammed Shami’s ankle issue during landing has raised concerns about his fitness. Currently in London for treatment, there is speculation about possible injections for his ankle problems. Shami’s participation in the ongoing Test series is almost ruled out, and the bigger question remains – will he be fit for the Indian Premier League (IPL) scheduled for March to May? The extent of his recovery will determine his availability for the lucrative T20 tournament.
Mystery Surrounding Kohli’s Absence
Virat Kohli’s absence has become a subject of mystery, with the BCCI maintaining silence and requesting privacy. While the exact reasons for Kohli’s withdrawal remain undisclosed, it is confirmed that the star batter is currently out of the country. The uncertainty over his availability for the remaining matches adds another layer of concern for Team India. Initially ruled out for the first two Tests, Kohli’s status for the subsequent games remains uncertain.
In contrast to the alarming scenarios with Jadeja, Shami, and Kohli, KL Rahul’s injury status appears relatively optimistic. Dealing with right quadriceps pain related to a previous thigh surgery, Rahul’s recovery is progressing well. Attached to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) for rehabilitation, Rahul is expected to be ready for the third Test starting on February 15. The BCCI, cautious about the key batsman’s fitness, believes in his timely recovery, considering the significant gap between the second and third Tests.
Josh Inglis Misses Hilarious Run-Out Opportunity in 1st ODI Against West Indies
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In a surprising turn of events during the first One Day International (ODI) between Australia and West Indies at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a missed run-out opportunity became the highlight of the match. The incident unfolded when West Indies found themselves struggling at 222/8 in the 47th over, and what seemed like a straightforward run-out chance turned into a moment of amusement for cricket enthusiasts.
Confusion Leads to Missed Opportunity
Gudakesh Motie, facing a delivery from Sean Abbott, managed to hit the ball towards sweeper cover, attempting to secure two runs before contemplating a risky third run. However, confusion ensued as Hayden Walsh signalled Motie to return. Despite the throw from the boundary reaching wicketkeeper Josh Inglis at point-blank range, a surprising turn of events occurred as Inglis failed to dislodge the bails, allowing Motie to escape.
Australia captain Steve Smith’s decision to put West Indies in to bat proved beneficial as the visitors posted a total of 231. Keacy Carty and Roston Chase played pivotal innings, contributing with half-centuries. Debutant Xavier Bartlett made a remarkable start with the ball, claiming four wickets in his debut new-ball spell, including a wicket with his third delivery in international cricket.
Carty’s Resilience and Australia’s Bowling Excellence
Carty showcased resilience with a top score of 88 off 108 balls, steering the West Indies innings. However, his pursuit of a century was cut short by a run-out in the 41st over. Australia’s Adam Zampa and Sean Abbott played crucial roles in wrapping up the West Indies innings in the 48th over, ensuring the hosts had a manageable target to chase.
With the focus now shifting to the second innings, Australia aims to chase down the target set by West Indies and take the lead in the three-match ODI series. As the team’s gear up for the upcoming challenges, the missed run-out moment adds an element of humour to an already entertaining encounter at the MCG.
Yashasvi Jaiswal Shines with Unbeaten Century as England Clings on Day One
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In the second Test between India and England in Visakhapatnam, opener Yashasvi Jaiswal stole the show with a sublime unbeaten century, guiding India to a total of 336-6 on the opening day. The left-hander’s resilient innings proved crucial for India, preventing them from squandering the advantage gained by winning the toss and opting to bat first on a favourable pitch.
England Clings on Despite Jaiswal’s Brilliance
Jaiswal’s exceptional batting display kept England at bay, although the tourists admirably held their ground. The 20-year-old opener batted throughout the day, forming three key partnerships of over 50 runs. Despite his brilliance, Jaiswal’s teammates failed to convert promising starts, with the six dismissed players contributing scores ranging from 14 to 34.
In a challenging day in the field, England’s inexperienced bowling attack, apart from the seasoned James Anderson, displayed commendable resilience. The attack, featuring debutant Shoaib Bashir, managed to take six wickets, a noteworthy achievement given the conditions in India. Bashir, just 20 years old, made an impactful debut, claiming his maiden Test wicket with the dismissal of Rohit Sharma.
The pitch in Visakhapatnam appears true for now, with the potential to deteriorate later in the match. England, with a relatively inexperienced attack, must capitalise on the conditions when they come to bat and ensure a strong first innings. The tourists will aim to build on the momentum gained from their remarkable win in Hyderabad.
Jaiswal’s Journey to Superstardom Continues
Yashasvi Jaiswal, often hailed as the rising star of Indian cricket, showcased his incredible talent with a second Test century in just his sixth Test. His journey, marked by a challenging backstory, includes moving to Mumbai at the age of 12 to pursue cricket and selling street food to sustain himself. From being the player of the tournament at the 2020 Under-19 World Cup to signing a significant deal with Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League, Jaiswal continues to illuminate the Test format.
Debutant Shoaib Bashir had a bright start to his Test career, making valuable contributions with the ball for England. His impactful debut included the crucial wicket of Rohit Sharma and a late breakthrough, dismissing Axar Patel. Despite England’s overall inexperience in the bowling department, Bashir’s promising start offers hope for the future.
Joe Root Suffers Finger Injury, Forced Off Field During Second Test Against India
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England’s prolific batter, Joe Root, faced an untimely setback during the morning session on day 3 of the second Test against India. The former skipper sustained an injury to his right little finger while attempting to catch an edge from Shubman Gill in the slips. The incident occurred during the 18th over of India’s second innings when Gill played a challenging delivery from spinner Tom Hartley, resulting in a thick edge.
Missed Catch and Boundary: Root’s Unsuccessful Attempt
Despite managing to get a finger on the ball, Joe Root couldn’t complete the catch, allowing the ball to fly for a boundary. The missed opportunity led to concerns about Root’s condition, prompting the England team management to provide an update on the situation.
In an official statement, the England team management stated, “Joe Root sustained an external blow to his right little finger, attempting a slip catch in the first session of D3.” The medical team decided to keep him off the field temporarily for treatment and icing. However, there is currently no indication of when Root will be able to return to the field.
Root’s Performance in the Series So Far
While Joe Root has faced challenges in making significant contributions with the bat in the ongoing series, he showcased his all-around abilities in the first Test in Hyderabad. Root claimed four wickets for 79 runs and one wicket for 41 runs in the Hyderabad Test, making valuable contributions with the ball.
In the batting department, Root faced dismissals of 29 and 2 in the Hyderabad Test, scoring just 5 in the first innings. Despite not being among the runs in the series, his injury during the second Test adds another layer of complexity to England’s campaign against India.
India Levels Series with Thrilling Victory Over England in 2nd Test
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In a captivating battle between Indian bowlers and England’s aggressive batting, the hosts secured a series-levelling 106-run victory in the second Test on Monday. The engrossing contest saw India blunting ‘Bazball’ with resilience, setting the stage for a thrilling five-match series. The bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah (3/46) and R Ashwin (3/71), orchestrated a spectacular comeback, dismissing England for 292 in pursuit of a challenging target of 399.
Key Performers: Bumrah and Ashwin Shine
Jasprit Bumrah, earning the Player of the Match honours, played a pivotal role with a total haul of nine wickets in the game. His exceptional performance, supported by R Ashwin, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav, turned the tide in India’s favor. The young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal’s crucial 209-run knock in the first innings also contributed significantly to India’s success.
An elated India skipper Rohit Sharma expressed, “Winning a Test in these conditions is not easy. (I) wanted our bowlers to step up and they did that.” England skipper Ben Stokes acknowledged their belief in chasing down the target but fell short against India’s resilient bowling attack.
Despite the collective efforts of the Indian bowlers, Zak Crawley’s strategy of mixing caution with aggression stood out. Crawley’s approach, scoring 73 off 132 balls, showcased a blend of patience and calculated strokes against an intense morning spell from Bumrah.
Turning Points: Stokes’ Run Out and Lower Order Resistance
The turning point came post-lunch when skipper Ben Stokes got run out via a brilliant direct hit from Shreyas Iyer. Although Ben Foakes (36) and Tom Hartley (36) frustrated India with a resilient partnership for the eighth wicket, the visitors eventually succumbed to the hosts’ relentless bowling attack.
With the series now levelled, the focus shifts to the third Test scheduled in Rajkot from February 15. The roller-coaster contest in the second Test has set the stage for a competitive series, with both teams aiming to gain the upper hand.
Shreyas Iyer’s Run-Out ‘Payback’ Seals India’s 106-Run Victory Over England
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In a dramatic turn of events on Day 4 of the second Test between India and England, England captain Ben Stokes pressed the self-destruct button with a lazy run between the wickets. Facing the challenging task of adding 332 more runs to the total, Stokes’ miscalculated run resulted in a stunning run-out orchestrated by India’s Shreyas Iyer.
Iyer’s ‘Payback’ Celebration
Shreyas Iyer, seizing the opportunity, delivered a direct hit to dismiss Stokes and went on to replicate the England captain’s own celebration. Earlier in the match, Stokes had taken a brilliant catch running backward, and Iyer amusingly paid back the favour with a copycat celebration.
Stokes’ wicket was pivotal for India as he and Ben Foakes were building a crucial partnership in England’s chase of 399 runs. After the dismissal, Foakes and Tom Hartley managed a commendable 55-run partnership for the 8th wicket, showcasing resilience against India’s polished bowling attack.
England’s Aggressive Approach Falters
At the start of Day 4, England required 332 runs to win with 9 wickets in hand. Despite the aggressive approach, most England batters got off to good starts but failed to capitalise, playing shots they soon regretted. The ‘Bazball’ strategy didn’t yield the intended rewards, and India capitalised on the visitors’ errors.
India showcased improvements in their game after the series opener defeat, and they eventually handed England a 106-run defeat in the second Test. With this triumph, India levelled the 5-match series 1-1, setting the stage for an exciting third Test.
