Yashasvi Jaiswal’s phenomenal unbeaten double-century and local lad Ravindra Jadeja’s five-wicket haul in the fourth innings led India to a resounding 434-run victory over England in the third Test at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. Jaiswal’s 214 off 236 balls, which included 14 fours and 12 sixes, was a career-best score and put him in the company of Wasim Akram for most sixes in a Test innings. India’s win now puts them ahead 2-1 in the five-match series.
Jaiswal, who retired hurt on 104 on Day Three due to back cramps, made history by becoming the first Test player to hit 20 sixes in a series. His partnership with Sarfaraz Khan, who also had an impressive knock, helped India set a daunting target of 557 runs for England. In response, England crumbled to 122 all out in just 39.4 overs, with Ravindra Jadeja taking 5-41. This victory marked India’s biggest win by runs in Tests and England’s second-biggest defeat.
India’s dominant performance was fueled by Shubman Gill’s fine 91 and Sarfaraz Khan’s 68, which showcased the bright future of Indian Test cricket batting. Post lunch, Jaiswal’s aggressive gameplay took center stage, with him reaching his 200 in style and Sarfaraz also notching back-to-back fifties on debut.
England’s batting collapsed after a watchful start, with Zak Crawley being involved in a mix-up that resulted in a run-out and the rest of the team falling quickly to India’s bowlers. The match concluded with Ravichandran Ashwin, who had left the match mid-way due to a family medical emergency, returning to take a wicket and Jadeja securing the final wicket of the match.
With this win, India has taken a 2-1 lead in the series, leaving England with a lot to ponder ahead of the fourth Test at Ranchi starting on February 23. The test showcased the emerging talent in Indian cricket and the resilience of the team in securing a comprehensive victory.
In summary, Yashasvi Jaiswal’s stunning double-century and Ravindra Jadeja’s five-wicket haul led India to a dominant 434-run victory over England, putting them ahead in the series 2-1. Shubman Gill and Sarfaraz Khan also contributed to India’s commanding win, highlighting the bright future of Indian cricket.
