In a display of sheer brilliance and technique, India's Shubman Gill put on an eye-catching display of stroke-making and notched up his fourth Test century on Day 2 of the final Test against England at the picturesque HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala. This remarkable feat contributed significantly to India surpassing England's first innings total, marking a pivotal moment in the series.
Gill's century was part of a monumental partnership with India's captain Rohit Sharma, as both maestros crafted centuries to dismantle the English bowling attack. Gill's prowess saw him breach the 400-run barrier in the series, propelling him past England's Zak Crawley to secure the position as the second-highest run-scorer of the five-match series.
Gill took centerstage after Jaiswal's dismissal
The foundation for Gill's milestone was laid when he took to the crease following the departure of opener Yashasvi Jaiswal on Day 1. Jaiswal had set the stage with a commendable 58-ball 57, only to be dismissed by spinner Shoaib Bashir. Gill, seizing the moment, reached the coveted three-figure mark in the 58th over by dispatching Bashir to the boundary, his innings embellished with 10 boundaries and five towering sixes.
India's dominance was evident as they amassed 129 runs in the morning session of Day 2, heading into Lunch at a commanding 264/1, thus leading England by 46 runs. Gill's contribution was central to this dominance, as he walked into Lunch with a well-compiled 101 runs from 142 balls.
Kuldeep Yadav led India's charge with the ball
The host's bowling attack, led by wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav, had earlier set the tone by skittling out England for 218 runs on the first day. Kuldeep, in a spellbinding performance, claimed his fourth five-wicket haul in Tests, capturing five wickets for 72 runs in 15 overs. He found an able ally in Ravichandran Ashwin, who, in his 100th Test, snagged four wickets, showcasing the depth and prowess of India's bowling resources.
As India concluded Day 1 at 135/1, the partnership between Rohit and Gill left them trailing England by just 83 runs, with nine wickets in hand.Β
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