India vs England 2nd Test, Day 3: England drew first blood in a crucial moment on Day 3 of the 2nd Test against India, dismissing skipper Rohit Sharma for a mere 13 runs. James Anderson, England’s veteran pace magician, produced a beauty in his very first over of the morning, leaving Rohit’s off-stump cartwheeling.
It was a masterclass in seam bowling. The previous delivery, angled in and nipping back in, set the trap. This one, a fraction fuller, drew Rohit forward in defense, only to nip away ever so slightly and beat the outside edge. The off-stump had no chance, clattering down to Anderson’s roar and England’s delight.
Rohit Sharma inconsistent form
The dismissal marked another instance of Rohit Sharma’s inconsistent form since March 2023. Against the formidable SENA nations (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia), Rohit Sharma has faced challenges, accumulating 645 runs in 19 innings at an average of 33, featuring two half-centuries but no centuries. Contrastingly, when facing Nepal, Afghanistan, West Indies, and Netherlands, he has been in prolific touch. In 10 innings, Rohit amassed 639 runs with a remarkable average of 91, including four fifties and three centuries.
With their captain gone early, India is under pressure to build a strong partnership and extend their lead. Shubman Gill has come to the crease, carrying the hopes of the team on his young shoulders. England, on the other hand, will be eyeing further breakthroughs to claw their way back into the match.
The battle for control of the 2nd Test is hanging in the balance, and this early wicket has significantly intensified the drama. Will India weather the storm or crumble under England’s renewed pressure? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: Day 3 promises to be a captivating chapter in this enthralling Test match.
Editors pick
