The 5th Test between India and England at Dharamsala is turning out to be a one-sided affair, with India firmly in control. Leading the charge is none other than the Indian captain, Rohit Sharma, who scored a magnificent century on the 2nd day.
Also read: Devdutt Padikkal Makes Test Debut for India in IND vs ENG 5th Test
Rohit’s knock was a captain’s innings, showcasing his experience and temperament. After England was bundled out for a paltry 218 runs (thanks to a brilliant bowling performance by India’s spinners), Rohit steadied the Indian ship alongside his young opening partner, Shubman Gill.
💥🫡 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻 • 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿 • 𝗛𝗶𝘁𝗺𝗮𝗻.
▶️ Rohit Sharma brings up his 12th Test 💯.
📷 Getty • #RohitSharma #INDvENG #INDvsENG #TeamIndia #BharatArmy #COTI🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/3bOW94iI4c
— The Bharat Army (@thebharatarmy) March 8, 2024
The moment of celebration arrived when Rohit lofted a shot through deep mid-wicket, bringing up his 12th Test century. The entire stadium erupted in applause as Rohit acknowledged his teammates and the crowd with a raised bat. This was his second century in the series, further solidifying his dominance as a batsman.
Shubman Gill, who has been in impressive form throughout the series, played a crucial supporting role. The duo put on a solid opening partnership, providing India with a strong foundation.
At the time of writing, India has surpassed England’s total and has a healthy lead of 44 runs. The scoreboard reads 262/1, with Rohit and Gill being the heroes of the day.
Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
- Dominant India: India is in a commanding position in the Dharamshala Test, having taken a significant lead after bowling out England cheaply.
- Rohit Sharma’s Ton: The Indian captain led by example, scoring his 12th Test century and his second in this series.
- Solid Partnership: Rohit and Shubman Gill provided India with a strong start with their opening partnership.
- Series Win Already Secured: Even before this Test, India had already clinched the five-match series with a score of 3-1.
With Rohit Sharma in sublime touch and India batting with confidence, England faces a daunting task ahead. The onus will be on their bowlers to pick up wickets and restrict the flow of runs.
Captain Rohit Sharma 🐐 is Scoring Back to Back Hundreds against Prime England Team 🔥🔥🔥.
Meanwhile Virat Kohli ran away from Test Series against England to change diapers.
Shameless Virat Kohli#INDvENG |||| #RohitSharma
— Shubham 𝕏 (@DankShubhum) March 8, 2024
The remaining days of the Test promise to be exciting, with India aiming for a comprehensive victory and England desperately searching for a consolation win.
The focus now shifts to how big a total India can post. A strong first innings score will put immense pressure on England and make a win highly unlikely.
The performance of the Indian spinners, who dismantled the English batting order, will also be crucial in restricting England’s second-inning score.
This Test match is a mere formality for India in terms of the series win. However, both teams will be looking to use this opportunity to gain valuable points for the World Test Championship.
