In a spectacular display of batting prowess, Yashasvi Jaiswal guided India to a resounding victory over England in the Rajkot Test on Sunday, securing a crucial 2-1 lead in the ICC World Test Championship series.
Jaiswal’s historic innings, where he notched an unbeaten 214, marked his second consecutive double century in Test cricket, cementing his status as one of the rising stars in the longest format of the game. His remarkable performance played a pivotal role in India’s commanding win, as they now jump to the second position in the WTC standings for the 2023-25 cycle.
Facing a daunting target of 557 for victory, England succumbed to the relentless Indian bowling attack, ultimately being bowled out for a mere 122. The comprehensive win by a margin of 434 runs is India’s largest in terms of runs when all four innings were played, surpassing their previous record of a 372-run victory against New Zealand at the Wankhede in 2021.
Jaiswal’s innings in Rajkot not only sealed the series lead for India but also saw several longstanding Test records crumble. This included India’s achievement of scoring over 400 runs in both innings of a Test match for only the third time in their history. The last instances were against Pakistan in Kolkata in 2005, where India posted 407 and 407/9, and against Sri Lanka in Ahmedabad four years later, with scores of 426 and 412/4.
The opener’s incredible form and the team’s dominant performance have propelled India to leapfrog Australia in the WTC standings, securing the second position. New Zealand currently leads the cycle with a point percentage of 75% after four Tests, while India closely follows with 59.52%. Australia is just behind with a point percentage of 55%.
India’s margin of victory in Rajkot not only showcased their batting prowess but also underlined their dominance in all facets of the game. The win has added momentum to India’s quest for a spot in the WTC final, with the team looking to capitalize on their current form in the upcoming matches of the championship.
As Yashasvi Jaiswal continues to shine on the international stage, Indian cricket fans are filled with optimism about the team’s future, with the young opener emerging as a key player in their quest for Test cricket glory. The Rajkot Test will undoubtedly be remembered as a landmark moment in Jaiswal’s career and a significant milestone for Indian cricket.
