Xtra Time Web Desk: The Indian cricket team led by Rohit Sharma bounced back strongly after the Hyderabad loss, showcasing a determined batting performance in the second Test at Vizag. Yashasvi Jasiwal (209) and Shubman Gill (104) led the charge, while Jasprit Bumrah’s match-turning spell of 6/45 in the first innings provided crucial impetus.
On Day 4, England faced a challenging target of 332 runs, with Zak Crawley and nightwatchman Rehan Ahmed at the crease. Despite setting a formidable target, the hosts seemed under pressure as England had won eight of their last 10 Tests when chasing. Crawley, in ominous touch, had raced to 73 off 132 balls, putting India on the defensive.
Rohit introduced Kuldeep Yadav just before lunch, a crucial move that paid off. Kuldeep’s variation troubled Crawley, who missed a shot, leading to an lbw appeal. After a thoughtful discussion, Rohit decided to review, and the decision was overturned, giving India a breakthrough.
Jasprit Bumrah, brought back into the attack for his second spell before lunch, dismissed Bairstow. The double-strike dealt a significant blow to England’s hopes of a successful chase. Ravichandran Ashwin, who had an off day in the first innings, redeemed himself on Day 4. His improved length and variations troubled Ollie Pope, leading to a crucial wicket. Pope was brilliantly caught in the slips by Rohit.
Joe Root, with a dodgy finger, fell victim to Ashwin’s guile, caught at short third by Axar. Despite Ben Stokes’ presence, India remained focused. Post-lunch, Bumrah’s skilful bowling and Shreyas Iyer’s direct hit ran out Stokes, extinguishing England’s last hope.
Ben Foakes and Tom Hartley fought valiantly but in vain as the visitors were bowled out for 292 runs, thereby losing the second test by 106 runs before Tea on Day 4. The five match test series is levelled at 1-1 with three more tests remaining.
Scores: India 396 all out (Yashasvi Jaiswal 209, James Anderson 3/47) & 255 (Shubman Gill 104; Tom Hartley 4/77) beat England 253 (Zak Crawley 76; Jasprit Bumrah 6/45) & 292 (Zak Crawley 73; Jasprit Bumrah 3/46) by 106 runs