India finishes Day 2 strong with lead of 175 runs, Jadeja remains not out on 81

Ravindra Jadeja achieved his 20th Test half-century, propelling India to a commanding 175-run lead against England on the second day of the first test. Jadeja remained unbeaten with a score of 81 as India concluded the day at 421-7, starting from 119-1 on Friday. England had scored 246 runs in their first innings.

Jadeja became India’s third batter to surpass 50 runs in the first innings, following Lokesh Rahul, who was caught out for 86, and opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored 80. Despite a brief setback after lunch, where India trailed by 24 runs, Rahul’s aggressive play, including four fours and two sixes, contributed to a 65-run partnership with Jadeja before he was caught off Tom Hartley.

Jadeja played a pivotal role in anchoring India’s innings during the final two sessions. He first added 68 runs with Srikar Bharat, who battled his way to 41 runs. Despite facing challenges against Joe Root’s off-spin, Bharat settled down, and India reached tea at 309-5.

In the final session, Root’s efforts paid off as he finished the day with figures of 2-77 in 24 overs, having earlier dismissed Jaiswal in the first over on Friday. A unique moment occurred when both batters found themselves at the same end, leading to Ravichandran Ashwin being run out for just one.

Axar Patel (35 not out) joined Jadeja, and the duo added 63 runs together until stumps. The morning session witnessed the early losses of Jaiswal and Shubman Gill (23), but Rahul’s innings helped stabilize the situation for the hosts.