The lack of experience in India’s batting lineup raised significant concerns after the surprising defeat in the initial Test. However, three matches into the five-game series against England, the same fearless group have seized their opportunities, providing the hosts with a reassuring 2-1 advantage.
Regardless of the outcomes in the remaining two games, this series will be remembered for the maturation of 22-year-old Yashasvi Jaiswal. He has dominated the English bowlers with consecutive double hundreds at the top of the order.
Jaiswal’s upbringing was marked by challenges, and having received opportunities across formats, it’s not surprising that the left-hander has displayed an insatiable hunger for runs. His innings in Rajkot not only defied his age but also served as a masterclass in Test match batting. Beginning cautiously, he later opted to hit sixes at will, including three off the formidable James Anderson in different directions.
Another significant aspect from the Rajkot Test, from the team’s viewpoint, was the impressive performance of debutants Sarfaraz Khan and wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel. Skipper Rohit Sharma humorously remarked on social media, “Ye aaj kal ke bacche (these kids of today),” while sharing a picture of the trio, a day after the record win in Rajkot.
In the absence of Virat Kohli and K L Rahul, the middle-order seemed vulnerable. Still, after finally getting his breakthrough, Sarfaraz demonstrated that he belongs on the biggest stage, starting from ball one and accumulating runs reminiscent of his years in domestic cricket.
Sarfaraz’s reliance on sweep shots, a departure from the typical style of Indian batters, marked a welcome change. While he didn’t frequently employ the reverse, his conventional sweep and slog sweep off the spinners not only earned him a substantial number of runs but also exerted pressure on the opposition.
Jurel’s agile work behind the stumps was evident, notably highlighted by his outstanding run-out of the in-form England opener Ben Duckett in the second innings.
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