Ravichandran Ashwin and debutant Dhruv Jurel anchor India’s innings on Day 2’s first session in Rajkot, bolstering hopes for a formidable first-innings total. England initially made progress by dismissing Kuldeep Yadav (4) and Ravindra Jadeja (112) swiftly. Despite early setbacks, Jurel exhibited remarkable composure against the English attack, forming a crucial 50-run partnership for the eighth wicket with Ashwin. The duo stood unbeaten as India reached 388/7 at Lunch.
James Anderson claimed the wicket of nightwatchman Kuldeep early on Day 2, while Joe Root outsmarted Jadeja with a sharply turning ball. Earlier, Rohit Sharma and Jadeja’s centuries, coupled with a remarkable 204-run partnership, set the stage for India’s dominance. However, a mistimed pull shot by Rohit prompted England’s hopes for a middle-lower order collapse. Enter Sarfaraz Khan, making his Test debut, who displayed aggressive batting, notching a brisk fifty before being run out due to a misjudgment by Jadeja. India concluded Day 1 at 326/5, with Jadeja unbeaten on 110.
Amidst Rohit and Jadeja’s stellar performances, Sarfaraz emerged as the standout player, countering England’s bowlers with confidence. Outscoring Jadeja in the initial partnership, Sarfaraz showcased a seasoned approach, appearing as if he had played 50 Tests. With his father and wife watching, Sarfaraz demonstrated composure and skill, offering a glimpse of his potential. Although his innings ended at 62, Sarfaraz left an indelible mark, signaling promising contributions in the future.
In the ongoing action, Rehan Ahmed dismissed Ashwin as India reached 408/8. The match remains finely poised, with India aiming for a substantial lead, and England seeking crucial breakthroughs to limit the first-innings deficit. The contributions of Ashwin, Jurel, and Sarfaraz have added layers to India’s innings, creating an intriguing narrative as the game unfolds in Rajkot.
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