Xtra Time Web Desk: India’s dominance in the third Test against England was highlighted by Yashasvi Jaiswal’s sensational double century and Ravindra Jadeja’s five-wicket haul, leading to a record-breaking victory by 434 runs on the fourth day in Rajkot. Jaiswal’s unbeaten 214 off 236 balls, featuring 12 sixes, set the stage for India’s second innings total of 430 for four declared, giving them a massive lead of 556 runs. This historic win marks the first time India has won a Test match by over 400 runs.
Jadeja’s remarkable performance with the ball, claiming 5 wickets for 41 runs, complemented India’s aggressive bowling strategy, dismantling England for 122 in their pursuit of a challenging 557-run target. The victory propels India to a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
Notably, Jaiswal’s incredible form continued as he became the first player to hit 20 sixes in a series, breaking India’s own record for the most sixes in a series (48). The left-handed opener also equaled the record for the most sixes (12) in a Test innings, joining Pakistan legend Wasim Akram in the record books. Additionally, Jaiswal’s consecutive double centuries in as many games make him only the third Indian, alongside Vinod Kambli and Virat Kohli, to achieve this feat.
Jaiswal’s outstanding contributions have made him the leading run-scorer in the current cycle of the ICC World Test Championship, surpassing Australia’s Usman Khawaja with 861 runs in seven Tests at an average of 71.75, including three centuries and two fifties.
Debutant Sarfaraz Khan also showcased his brilliance with two fifties in his maiden Test, contributing an unbeaten 68 in the second innings. Shubman Gill displayed his class with a score of 91, further strengthening India’s commanding position.
The comprehensive victory in Rajkot marks India’s biggest win in Test cricket in terms of runs, surpassing their previous record of a 372-run win over New Zealand in 2021. Both teams will now head to Ranchi for the fourth test match starting from February 23.