In a major development that was announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on March 9 (Saturday) morning, captain Rohit Sharma didn't lead the team out in the second innings of the 5th Test in Dharamsala against England. The Indian cricket board announced that Rohit was battling a stiff back and hence was forced to miss action. In Rohit's absence, Bumrah, who is the team's designated vice-captain, led the team out.
"Captain Rohit Sharma has not taken the field on Day 3 due to a stiff back," the BCCI said a tweet on X.
James Anderson notches 700 wickets in Tests
In a historic moment for Test cricket, Jimmy Anderson achieved the remarkable milestone of becoming the first fast bowler to claim 700 wickets. This achievement came during the morning session of Day 3 where India concluded their first innings with a strong total of 477.
Kuldeep Yadav, scoring 30 runs, had the distinction of being Anderson's 700th dismissal. India's formidable first-innings lead of 259 runs was established shortly after play began, as the team was bowled out within the first 20 minutes.
Shoaib Bashir bags another five-wicket haul
The partnership between vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah, who contributed 20 runs, and Kuldeep Yadav was particularly noteworthy. They added 49 runs for the ninth wicket, showcasing resilience at the lower end of the batting order. However, the Indian innings ultimately concluded under the spell of off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, who achieved impressive figures of 5/173 in 46.1 overs, marking his second five-wicket haul in Test cricket.
India's commanding lead was built on the foundation of significant batting contributions. Centuries from captain Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, coupled with half-centuries by Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sarfaraz Khan, and debutant Devdutt Padikkal, propelled India to a strong position. Their performances highlighted the depth and talent within the Indian batting lineup, setting the stage for a substantial first innings lead.
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