In a surprising turn of events, India’s batting approach in the second Test allowed England’s bowlers to have a shot at chasing down a record target of 399 runs. Despite a strong start with Shubman Gill’s century, India’s inconsistent approach in the final session opened the door for England.
India, after setting a target of 399, ended their second innings at 255 all out. England, led by openers Zak Crawley (29*) and Ben Duckett (28), started attacking but lost Duckett to R Ashwin’s bowling. England closed the day at 67 for one, with Crawley and night watchman Rehan Ahmed (9*) at the crease, still requiring 332 runs for victory.
Although the pitch showed no significant challenges, England remains optimistic about their chances, aiming to achieve the target and take a 2-0 lead in the series. The highest successful chase recorded in Asia is 395 by the West Indies in Bangladesh two years ago.
India, at 227 for six during tea, managed only 28 runs in 14.3 overs in the final session. Instead of opting for aggressive strokes, players like R Ashwin (29 off 61) and Jasprit Bumrah (0 off 26) chose to bat cautiously, not contributing significantly to the team’s total.
England’s James Anderson (2/29) impressed with his opening spell, while the inexperienced spin trio of Shoaib Bashir (1/58), Rehan Ahmed (3/88), and Tom Hartley (4/77) bowled the majority of the overs in the absence of Joe Root.
India’s inconsistent tactics followed Shubman Gill’s century, and despite a lead of 370 runs at tea, they failed to capitalize on the opportunity. Gill’s century and Axar Patel’s 45 were the only notable contributions in the second innings. England now eyes a historic chase on the final day of the Test.
(With inputs from PTI)