In the first Test match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, India posted a formidable total in response to England's first innings score of 246. The Indian team racked up 436 runs, showcasing their batting prowess on a challenging track. The second day of the Test saw India facing initial difficulties, but KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja steered the team out of a tight spot. Rahul's dismissal for 86 runs left Jadeja to anchor the innings, and he did so masterfully, batting skillfully with the lower order.
Jadeja's resilient 87 runs off 180 deliveries, which included successfully overturning two LBW decisions using DRS, played a crucial role in giving India a significant lead of 190 runs. Jadeja's contributions weren't limited to batting; earlier in the match, he had also made a significant impact with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for 88 runs and aiding India in bowling out England.
Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar praised Jadeja for his all-round performance, hailing him as the best all-rounder in the world.
"Jadeja is probably the best cricketer in the world with the contribution he makes with bat, ball and in the field," Gavaskar said on air.
"He adds so much value to the team and by all accounts he is an absolute delight in the changing room as well," he added.
Jadeja's excellence is further evidenced by his sustained position at the top of the ICC all-rounder rankings, a testament to his consistent high-level play.
Looking ahead to Day 3 of the Test, India is expected to leverage Jadeja's spin bowling prowess to challenge the English batting lineup.
On the other hand, England's bowlers put up a strong resistance, preventing India from extending their lead to 200. In their second innings, England has started to mount a comeback against India's spin attack. At lunch on Day 3, England were progressing steadily at 89/1 in 15 overs, indicating a spirited response to India's dominant batting display.
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