In the second Test at Visakhapatnam, India found themselves in a commanding position, thanks to a spectacular unbeaten century from the rising star, Yashasvi Jaiswal. The left-handed opener batted throughout the day, accumulating an impressive 179 runs and steering India to a total of 336-6 at stumps.
England’s Battle through the Day
The toss favored India, and they decided to bat first on what seemed to be a good pitch. Jaiswal’s innings proved crucial in ensuring that India did not squander this advantage, especially after losing the thrilling first Test and trailing 1-0 in the series. While Jaiswal shone, contributing significantly to three partnerships exceeding 50 runs, his teammates failed to convert starts into substantial scores.
England, despite their relatively inexperienced bowling attack, admirably clung on to the contest. Shoaib Bashir, a 20-year-old debutant spinner, stood out among England’s bowlers, claiming his maiden Test wicket by dismissing Rohit Sharma. The seasoned James Anderson, the sole seamer in the lineup, also made a notable contribution by removing Shubman Gill.
As the day progressed, Bashir continued to impress, securing his second wicket by dismissing Axar Patel, while Rehan Ahmed chipped in by sending KS Bharat back to the pavilion. England’s disciplined bowling performance gave them hope of limiting India to a manageable total.
The English bowlers, apart from Anderson, showcased their resilience in challenging conditions. This England bowling attack was notably inexperienced, with both Ahmed and Bashir being under 21 years old, a rarity in Test cricket history for England.
Despite occasional lapses in the field, England maintained their spirit and managed to take crucial wickets. The conditions demanded patience, and England delivered by chipping away at the Indian batting lineup. Anderson’s experience played a pivotal role, demonstrating control and skill throughout the day.
Reflecting on their win in Hyderabad, this day in the field was a stark contrast for England, resembling a more typical test in India. Nevertheless, they managed to take six wickets, suggesting that they had the better of the day. The pitch, currently appearing true, has the potential to deteriorate, setting the stage for a fascinating contest in the upcoming days.
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Remarkable Journey
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s innings not only rescued India but also highlighted his exceptional talent and journey to superstardom. At the age of 12, Jaiswal moved to Mumbai to pursue cricket and even sold street food to sustain himself. His dedication paid off when he was spotted by a coach playing in one of Mumbai’s famous maidans.
Jaiswal’s rise continued as he was named the player of the tournament at the 2020 Under-19 World Cup. Following this success, he secured a significant deal to play for the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League. Now, he is making a mark in the Test format with his second century in only his sixth Test.
His unbeaten 179 was laced with elegant strokes through the off side, including five sixes. The innings was a testament to his measured scoring, with partnerships of 90 with Shreyas Iyer and 70 with debutant Rajat Patidar. Jaiswal’s performance included glorious lofted shots over extra cover, reaching his century with a confident strike over long-on off Tom Hartley.
Despite a brief aggressive phase in the run-up to his century, Jaiswal’s overall innings was characterized by patience and precision. His knocks of 73 and 155 saw England’s skipper, Joe Root, getting fingertips on flashing edges at slip.
Shoaib Bashir’s Bright Start for England
The debutant Shoaib Bashir’s journey to Test cricket echoed the romance of Jaiswal’s ascent. Released by Surrey and subsequently picked up by Somerset, Bashir was playing club cricket just last summer. England captain Ben Stokes identified him as a potential option for the tour after spotting him bowling on Twitter.
Despite a visa delay that delayed his arrival until just before the Test, Bashir emerged as England’s most effective spinner on the day. In only six first-class matches, he showcased the turn and skill required at the Test level. Bashir’s maiden Test wicket, dismissing Rohit Sharma, was a memorable moment, celebrated with a passionate howl to the sky.
In contrast to Bashir’s youthfulness, James Anderson, at 41, became the oldest seamer to ever play a Test in India. His controlled and skillful bowling throughout the day showcased his enduring class. Anderson’s dismissal of Shubman Gill, inducing an edge behind, highlighted his impact on the game.
While Bashir led the spin department admirably, the pitch seemed true, offering little assistance. Tom Hartley, unable to replicate his heroics from Hyderabad, at least played a role in dismissing Shreyas Iyer off an under-edge brilliantly taken by wicketkeeper Ben Foakes.
As the day concluded, Bashir struck again, claiming the wicket of Axar Patel. Ahmed replicated Bashir’s success, dismissing KS Bharat in a similar fashion. With the lower order exposed, England has the second new ball available on the following day, providing them with an opportunity to further capitalize on their disciplined bowling effort.
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