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Former England fast bowler Steven Finn joined the bandwagon of cricket followers who voiced their discontent with India captain Rohit Sharma's leadership on Day 2 of the 3rd Test between India and England. The frustration among fans soared as England's opening duo, Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley, launched a swift offensive on February 16. Duckett, particularly aggressive, swiftly achieved a fifty in only 39 balls and later brought up his century in style.
Critiques surfaced suggesting that Sharma should have utilised Ravichandran Ashwin's bowling earlier, considering Ashwin's commendable track record against left-handed batters like Duckett. This viewpoint was supported by Finn during his commentary on Sky Sports, where he openly questioned Rohit Sharma's leadership and in-game strategy.
"I think Rohit Sharma will be up with the analyst working out when he introduces his bowlers and who against," Finn said.
"I think he missed a trick by not bringing on Ashwin and Jadeja earlier on today. India will come back refreshed tomorrow," he further added.
Ben Duckett steals limelight on Day 2
Ben Duckett's dynamic century propelled England to a solid standing of 207/2 at the close of the second day. With an assertive unbeaten 133 from 118 deliveries, Duckett cut down England's trail to merely 238 runs after India posted a scored of 445 runs in their first innings.
The task gets harder for India as Ravichandran Ashwin withdraws
India faces a significant setback in the ongoing third Test against England as Ravichandran Ashwin stepped away from the match due to a family emergency and was ruled out from taking any further part in the contest.
"Ravichandran Ashwin has withdrawn from the Test squad, effective immediately due to a family medical emergency," the BCCI said in a release on February 16.
"In these challenging times, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team fully supports Ashwin.
"The BCCI extends its heartfelt support to the champion cricketer and his family. The health and well-being of the players and their loved ones are of utmost importance. The Board requests respect for the privacy of Ashwin and his family as they navigate through this challenging time.
"The Board and the team will continue to provide any necessary assistance to Ashwin and will keep the lines of communication open to offer support as needed. Team India appreciates the understanding and empathy of the fans and media during this sensitive period," the release added.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
'People doubted me whether I could be a Test bowler..': R Ashwin's stunning remark after 500 Test wicket milestone in Rajkot
IND vs ENG: Replying to India's 445, Ben Duckett's aggressive ton helps England dominate Day 2's play following Ashwin's historic 500
