India gained the much-needed advantage against England because of an almost flawless performance from Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored 179 runs off 257 balls.
Digital Desk: On the first day of the second Test match between India and England in Visakhapatnam on Friday, February 02, Yashasvi Jaiswal showed the skills and composure of a seasoned batsman. He stood out as the only Indian top 6 batter who learned from the mistakes of India's sloppy defeat in the series opener in Hyderabad. Yashasvi scored a spectacular hundred by riding a wave of success and a strong opening partnership.
India gained the much-needed advantage against England because of an almost flawless performance from Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored 179 runs off 257 balls. India was 336 for 6 at the close of the day. England bowled a total of 93 overs, keeping a good over rate despite the hot and muggy weather in Visakhapatnam. They were headed by the seasoned James Anderson and assisted by four spinners.
On a pitch known for its ability to support spin in Vizag, England often took wickets while displaying remarkable patience. But unlike the other six batters who could barely muster double figures before heading back to the pavilion, Yashasvi Jaiswal was an exception because he worked hard and did not give up his wicket.
Ben Stokes and the England team were content to play a waiting game on Friday, knowing that the nature of the pitch would remain relatively unchanged for the first three days.
Rohit Sharma paid the price for his lack of confidence. Ollie Pope caught him at leg-slip after rookie Shoaib Bashir's delivery took an unexpected turn.
Shubman Gill, who has come under fire for his role on the team, missed yet another chance to score a significant goal. Gill was dismissed by James Anderson, who became the oldest bowler to play in an Indian Test match, even though he displayed greater tenacity than in the previous game in Hyderabad.
Similarly, Shreyas Iyer, who has also faced scrutiny, was disappointed once again. Iyer was dismissed by Hyderabad hero Tom Hartley at the age of 27, having chosen a poor shot as one of the more experienced players in the weaker batting lineup. Instead of using this important opportunity to quiet his detractors and lock down his position at No. 4, Iyer has put further pressure on himself.
On the other hand, Rajat Patdiar, making his debut, showed impressive control. He brought up the name of Maharashtra batsman Ajinkya Rahane, who debuted in a Test match on Friday. Patdiar moved deftly against the spinners and made good use of the crease. Before the rookie was removed by a leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed delivery, Patidar and Yashasvi forged a powerful partnership that lasted for ninety runs.
Yashasvi Jaiswal received outstanding support from Axar Patel, but sadly, near the close of the day's play, the left-handed hitter was bowled out by Shoaib Bashir, leaving him with just 27 runs scored.
Another player from the region, KS Bharat, was also at fault for thoughtlessly discarding his wicket. He made a careless shot in the last ten minutes of play that was caught by the point fielder.
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