New Delhi: India registered their biggest win in terms of runs in Test cricket, as they thrashed England by 434 runs in the third Test at Rajkot. The hosts took a 2-1 lead in the five-match series, thanks to the brilliance of their batsmen and bowlers.
Jaiswal’s double ton sets up huge target for England
India, who had scored 445 in the first innings, declared their second innings at 430 for 4, setting England a mammoth target of 557. Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was the star of the show, as he smashed an unbeaten 214 off 236 balls, with 14 fours and 12 sixes. He became the youngest Indian to score a double century in Tests, breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record. Shubman Gill also played a fluent knock of 91 off 151 balls, while Sarfaraz Khan chipped in with an unbeaten 68 off 72 balls.
Jadeja’s five-for skittles out England for 122
England’s second innings was a complete disaster, as they were bundled out for 122 in 38.1 overs. None of their batsmen could cope with the spin and pace of the Indian bowlers, who ran through their line-up. Ravindra Jadeja was the pick of the bowlers, as he claimed 5 for 36 in 15 overs. He was well supported by Kuldeep Yadav, who took 2 for 24 in 9 overs. Jasprit Bumrah and Ravichandran Ashwin also took a wicket each. Mark Wood was the top scorer for England with 33, while Ben Stokes made 15. The rest of the batsmen failed to reach double figures.
India eye series win in the final Test
India has taken a commanding lead in the series and will look to seal the deal in the final Test at Ahmedabad. England, on the other hand, will have to regroup and bounce back from this humiliating defeat. They will need to improve their batting, bowling, and fielding if they want to challenge the hosts in the last match. The fourth Test will start on February 24, 2024.
