Axar Patel proved to be the much-needed breakthrough for India on Day 2 of the second Test against England in Vizag. The spinner dismantled the threatening partnership between Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope by dismissing the dangerous Crawley, who had amassed 76 runs from just 78 balls.
In the 23rd over, Crawley attempted to launch the ball over mid-wicket but only managed to nick it, sending the ball towards the point region. Shreyas Iyer, displaying remarkable athleticism, sprinted backward to secure a fantastic catch. Crawley’s aggressive innings, which included 11 fours and 2 sixes, came to an end, halting England’s burgeoning momentum.
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Meanwhile, it was a masterclass display from Yashasvi Jaiswal in India’s first innings. The talented left-handed opener showcased his prowess by crafting a magnificent double century. Jaiswal’s commanding innings of 209 runs off 290 balls featured 19 fours and seven sixes, anchoring India’s batting lineup with finesse.
India’s innings continued from 336/6, with Jaiswal resuming his heroics on Day 2. However, the day began with the loss of Ravichandran Ashwin’s wicket, who managed a valuable 20 runs from 37 balls before being dismissed. Shortly after, Jaiswal reached his double century, only to be removed by England’s veteran James Anderson. India’s innings concluded at 396 runs, with Jaiswal leading the charge as the top scorer.
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In England’s first innings, openers Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley provided a solid start with a 59-run partnership. However, after Duckett’s departure, Crawley intensified his assault, forming a crucial 50-run partnership with Ollie Pope.
Axar Patel’s breakthrough by dismissing Crawley triggered a collapse, with Jasprit Bumrah swiftly removing Joe Root and Ollie Pope. The responsibility now lies on Jonny Bairstow and Ben Stokes to stabilize England’s innings and surpass India’s first-innings total.
With England aiming to maintain their momentum from the first Test victory, and India determined to level the series, the second Test promises to be an intense battle. Additionally, India seeks to rectify their position in the World Test Championship standings after the setback in the opening Test.
