Pandya fifer puts India ahead in 3rd Test

After a disappointing start to Day 2 with the bat, India regained control of the match with the ball as England managed to put up only 161 runs on the board and the Indian bowlers shined, outclassing the England batsmen. Hardik Pandya managed to get 5 wickets in quick succession giving only 28 runs and bowling only a total of 6 overs on Day 2 of this exciting 3rd test.

At the start, it took only 40 mins for England to wrap up India’s first innings at 329, which is also the highest total scored by India in England after being asked to bat first. The England batsmen entered the field strong but it all turned around for India in the post-lunch session as Ishant Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah struck in quick succession. In the latter half, Hardik Pandya produced a magical spell, picking up five wickets in just six overs.

The England team collapsed like a pack of cards and were bundled out for 161 in 38.2 overs. This match saw Rishabh Pant getting into the history books, making 5 dismissals from the wicket keeper position on test match debut, being only the third cricketer to do so. India then came out to bat again with a healthy lead of 168 runs, Indian openers started confidently, taking on the England bowlers.

Openers Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul stitched yet another 50-run opening stand before Rahul (36) missed an in-swinger from Ben Stokes. Post Rahul’s dismissal, Dhawan (44) and Pujara notched up a 51-run partnership, extending India’s lead in the second innings. At stumps, Virat Kolhi and Cheteshwar Pujara remained unbeaten at 8 and 33 runs respectively. For England, it was a disappointing day as batsmen surrendered in front of the Indian pacers in overcast conditions. Jos Buttler (39) was the highest scorer for the team in the 1^st innings.

Keep reading GutshotMagazine.com for daily updates on the 3rd Test between India and England.