In the ongoing Ranchi Test, Joe Root’s fielding heroics added to his batting prowess, securing a crucial wicket for England. On day 2, Root’s exceptional diving catch in the slips dismissed Sarfaraz Khan, further denting India’s position in the match. Following Ravindra Jadeja’s dismissal, Sarfaraz and Jaiswal steadied India’s innings with a 31-run partnership. However, Shoaib Bashir’s delivery ended Jaiswal’s innings, setting the stage for Root’s moment of brilliance.
Tom Hartley’s delivery tempted Sarfaraz to play, resulting in an outside edge towards the slip cordon. Root’s lightning-quick reaction saw him dive to his right, executing a stunning low catch.Joe Root’s display of athleticism underscored England’s determination, securing a crucial breakthrough. Sarfaraz’s departure was followed by Ravichandran Ashwin’s dismissal, marking Hartley’s second success of the day.
On Day 2 of the fourth Test between India and England, the Indian cricket team faced early setbacks with captain Rohit Sharma departing early for just 2 runs, courtesy of a swinging delivery from James Anderson. However, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill stabilized the innings, contributing 82 runs from 131 balls, with Gill making 38 runs off 65 balls before falling to Shoaib Bashir.
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Rajat Patidar and Ravindra Jadeja failed to make significant contributions, with Patidar dismissed for 17 runs and Jadeja for 12 runs, both falling victim to Bashir. Despite the wickets falling, Yashasvi Jaiswal showcased his aggressive yet sensible batting style, becoming India’s leading six-hitter in Test cricket for the year, surpassing Virender Sehwag with 23 sixes. Jaiswal also moved into the third spot globally for the most sixes in a calendar year in Test cricket, overtaking Adam Gilchrist.
However, he fell short of converting his fifty into a century, getting dismissed for a well-played 73 runs off 117 balls, including 8 fours and 1 six, bowled by Shoaib Bashir. England’s Joe Root continued his stellar form, remaining unbeaten on 122 runs from 274 balls, anchoring the innings.
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His partnership of 102 runs with Ollie Robinson (58 runs off 96 balls) for the eighth wicket added crucial runs to England’s total. Despite Root’s heroic efforts, England found themselves struggling at 112/5 initially, highlighting their dependence on individual performances. The fourth Test is crucial for England to level the series after their previous 434-run defeat against India. However, their challenges persist, emphasizing the need for collective contributions rather than relying solely on standout performances.
