In what some may mistakenly label a ‘dead rubber’, the ongoing Test match between India and England holds significant implications for the World Test Championship standings.
With India asserting dominance in the series, securing a commanding position in Ranchi, they aimed to fortify their lead atop the table. Conversely, England, languishing at the bottom, sought to rejuvenate their campaign. Opting to bat after winning the toss on a docile Dharamsala pitch, Ben Stokes exuded confidence, eager to seize the opportunity. Stokes’ optimism highlighted England’s determination to turn the tide in their favour.
On what could be deemed the most batter-friendly pitch of the series, England found themselves fortunate to navigate through the challenging early spells delivered by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Progressing to 100 for one and then 175 for three, their innings held promise. However, a startling collapse saw them lose five wickets for just eight runs, surrendering their advantage. The sudden downfall exposed vulnerabilities in technique and application, leaving England’s batting lineup vulnerable and questioning their approach.
Zack Crawley stood out with his resilient 79 amidst England’s struggle. Despite their proficiency in counterattacking over the past two years, England faltered against Kuldeep Yadav’s five-wicket haul and Rohit Sharma’s astute field placements. Despite a subdued start, Ravichandran Ashwin swiftly clinched four wickets in just seven overs, hastening England’s downfall. Their inability to counter Yadav’s spin and Sharma’s strategic fielding exposed England’s vulnerability as they were bundled out for 218.
Yashasvi Jaiswal once again shone with the bat for India, becoming the second fastest to reach the 1000-run mark at just 22 years old. However, his innings was cut short as he fell in pursuit of big hits. England’s spinners struggled to find the right length and pace, failing to trouble the Indian batters. India amassed a formidable total of 135 runs, firmly dictating proceedings and asserting control over the match.
Let’s take a look at highlights from Day 1 of IND vs ENG 5th Test:
1. Sarfaraz Khan’s catch appeal declined by Rohit and the latter was proven wrong
As the broadcast returned after the commercial, the delivery was replayed on the big screen. And much to India’s shock, there was indeed a faint nick. The moment Sarfaraz Khan saw it, he broke into a sarcastic smile and shook his head. The camera then panned to Dhruv Jurel, who wore a sheepish look on his face, and eventually to Rohit Sharma, who tried to brush it all under the carpet with a wry smile.
As multiple angles were replayed on the giant screen, Rohit acknowledged his error, offered a thumbs up to Sarfaraz and then well… did Rohit things, with a jovial gesture towards Sarfaraz. Even Kuldeep Yadav who was the bowler, stationed in the deep, was in anguish.