Following India’s monumental 434-run victory over England in Rajkot on Day 4 of the third Test, their largest margin of victory in terms of runs, captain Rohit Sharma highlighted the significant contribution of the team’s youngsters when it mattered most.
“Credit goes to the young players who have displayed character and demonstrated their capability to perform at this level and their desire to excel here. We often discuss the depth of our squad, and this series has showcased it. Winning a match after being 33 for 3 in the first innings feels great,” remarked Rohit after India secured a 2-1 series lead with two Test matches remaining.
For India, the stellar performances of the young players signal a promising future for the Test team.
Yashasvi Jaiswal, aged 22, became the third youngest player to achieve two double centuries (Vinod Kambli holds the record as the youngest, followed by Don Bradman).
On his Test debut, 26-year-old Sarfaraz Khan capitalized with two half-centuries after showcasing his skills for years in first-class cricket. Meanwhile, 24-year-old Shubman Gill, who began the series under pressure, reversed his fortunes with a century in the final Test and a notable 91 in the second innings of the current Test.
In pursuit of a daunting target of 557 runs, England crumbled to 122 in their second innings—a reminiscent scenario of a bygone era when English batsmen often collapsed under pressure following a leaky performance by their bowlers against Indian batsmen.
The scene evoked memories of the 1990s, following two closely contested Tests where England had won admiration for their aggressive approach with both bat and ball.
Post-victory, Indian celebrations remained subdued, marked by handshakes and light pats on each other’s backs as they made their way towards the dressing room. However, upon the final wicket’s fall, Ravindra Jadeja raised his arms triumphantly, basking in the glory of his stellar performances—a game-changing century in the first innings and a five-wicket haul in the second, which dismissed England in less than 40 overs.
The game was marked by several dramatic moments, beginning with India’s early stumble to 33 for 3 on the opening morning and culminating in R Ashwin’s departure from the game due to a family emergency after achieving the remarkable milestone of 500 Test wickets on the evening of Day 2. Ashwin’s return to the team on Sunday morning was hailed by Rohit as a testament to his character and commitment to the team.
However, it was Jadeja who stole the spotlight, following his century in the first innings with a five-wicket haul in the second, which led to England’s dismissal for just 122 runs and earned him the man-of-the-match award.
The match also prompts questions about England’s aggressive Bazball approach. Did they push too hard? Did they lose sight of their strategy? Two particular moments on the third day will come under scrutiny in this regard.
