In a breathtaking display of skill and determination, India stamped their authority on Day 2 of the fifth Test against England in Dharamsala. On this eventful Friday, March 8, the hosts not only consolidated their position but also showcased exemplary performances from their key players.
Resuming their first innings at 135/1 in response to England’s 218, India’s batsmen orchestrated a masterclass. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, the overnight batters, mesmerized the crowd with spectacular centuries. The duo’s formidable partnership of 171 runs for the second wicket laid the foundation for India’s dominance.
Rohit’s Roar and Gill’s Brilliance
Rohit Sharma, starting the day on 52, quickly found his rhythm, dispatching Shoaib Bashir for a six and a four. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill took on James Anderson, treating the seasoned bowler to a maximum and a boundary. Their positive intent propelled India to 230/1 after 50 overs, setting the stage for a commanding lead.
The Indian captain reached his century by expertly guiding a delivery from Tom Hartley through midwicket. Gill, on the other hand, displayed flair, reaching the milestone with a boundary over square leg. The opening session concluded with India scoring an impressive 129 runs without losing a wicket.
Stokes’ Magic and Anderson’s Response
As the frustration grew in the English camp, skipper Ben Stokes provided the breakthrough. Bowling for the first time since the 2023 Ashes, Stokes dismissed Rohit Sharma with a skillful delivery that beat the defense and rattled the off stump. James Anderson continued the momentum, claiming his 699th Test scalp by dismantling Gill’s off stump.
Sarfaraz Khan and debutant Devdutt Padikkal then stepped up, weathering the storm and adding 97 runs for the fourth wicket. Padikkal’s aggressive start, marked by three fours in an Anderson over, showcased the youngster’s potential.
Sarfaraz’s Fifties and England’s Late Strikes
Sarfaraz Khan accelerated, reaching his half-century with an emphatic sweep for four through midwicket. However, his innings ended in the last session, caught at slip while attempting to guide Shoaib Bashir. Despite the late strikes by England, Padikkal notched a debut half-century in style, launching Bashir for a maximum.
In the closing overs, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Ravichandran Ashwin fell victim to England’s determined bowling. Yet, India found stability as Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah’s unbroken 45-run partnership for the ninth wicket solidified their commanding position.
As the day concluded, India stood tall at 473/8, holding a substantial lead of 255 runs. Their exceptional performance sets the stage for an intriguing continuation of the fifth Test, with England now facing an uphill battle to regain control.
You can also check out Rohit Sharma’s Remarkable Fielding Tactics Steal the Show in IND vs ENG 5th Test.
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