RAJKOT: Ben Duckett’s explosive century spearheaded England’s aggressive response, propelling them to 207-2 after Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin achieved the milestone of 500 Test wickets in the third match of the series.
Duckett, displaying his left-handed prowess, notched his third Test hundred in a mere 88 balls, significantly reducing England’s deficit as they countered India’s total of 445 on day two in Rajkot. At the close of play, Duckett, standing tall on 133, partnered with Joe Root, who held firm at nine, leaving the tourists trailing India by 238 runs. Despite facing a fierce opening spell from the Indian pacers, Duckett remained relentless, forging an 80-ball partnership of 84 runs with Zak Crawley, who fell victim to Ashwin’s historic wicket.
Ashwin’s achievement, making him only the ninth international bowler and the second Indian after Anil Kumble to achieve this feat, was celebrated by his teammates as he dismissed Crawley. Undeterred, Duckett continued his onslaught, reaching his century alongside Ollie Pope, who later fell to Mohammed Siraj.
Mark Wood, reflecting on Duckett’s remarkable innings, praised his bravery and skill, highlighting his ability to maneuver against a formidable Indian attack. Wood also lauded the partnership between Duckett and Crawley, acknowledging their ability to apply pressure on the opposition.
Rehan Ahmed dismissed Ashwin with his leg-spin in the afternoon session and later claimed Jurel’s wicket with a sharply turning delivery caught behind.
Number 10 batsman Bumrah’s brisk 26-run knock further frustrated England before Wood trapped him lbw, ending with figures of 4-114, adding to his three wickets on day one.
Pacer James Anderson made the initial breakthrough, dismissing nightwatchman Kuldeep Yadav caught behind for four runs. Anderson’s tally of 696 Test wickets over 185 matches since his debut in 2003 attests to his longevity and skill.
Root dismissed overnight centurion Ravindra Jadeja for 112, taking a caught-and-bowled opportunity as India lost two wickets within the first five overs of the day. The ongoing five-Test series stands level at 1-1, with England claiming victory in the opener in Hyderabad, and India bouncing back in the second match.
