The 2nd day of the all-important test match at the Kennington Oval had great cricket on display. Both the teams India and England played their hearts out. After England had the edge on the first day, India nibbed back early into the game by taking 2 quick wickets. But Johnny Bairstow and Ollie Pope held the English batting together. The English took a lead of 99 runs which was cut short to 56 by the Indian openers. This day was quite eventful as it was full of drama. Dropped catches, splendid fielding, and good bowling, the spectators saw it all! Here’s a quick recap of the day: –
1st session: –
The first session belonged to both sides, it was shared. India was on top after sending back nightwatchman Craig Overton and cleaning up Dawid Malan. India seemed to be taking it away as the scoreboard read 62/5. But this was just before the classy knocks from Johnny Bairstow and Ollie Pope. Both the Englishmen decided to take charge of the Indian bowlers. Ollie slammed 4 boundaries in Shardul’s one over. The pick of the bowlers was Umesh Yadav, the comeback man. In a session of 25.3 overs, many runs were scored as the Brits showed their dominance.
2nd session: –
The second session was somewhat similar to the first one. in this session too the honors were shared by both sides. India sent back Johnny Bairstow as he was caught leg before the wicket. It was a great swinging-in delivery from Siraj that sent Johnny back at 151/6. Johnny later spoke to the match officials about some distraction near the side screen. The distraction caused him to lose his concentration and his wicket eventually. This on-air was called a “minor reason to justify his error” by Virender Sehwag in the Hindi Commentary. Next up was Moeen Ali. Moeen and Ollie again stitched up a good partnership. This 71 run stand between the two took England to 222/7.
3rd session: –
The third part of the play undoubtedly belonged to the Indians. They wasted little time before cleaning up the tail. However, Chris Woakes wagged the English tail. He along with Anderson proved to be an obstacle in India’s path. Chris was dealing in boundaries and making sure that Jimmy faced only a few deliveries. And simultaneously made sure that he scored 4-5 runs every over. Before getting Woakes out the lead was 99! And a cheeky run-out from Rishabh Pant sent Woakes back!
With a formidable lead of 99 runs, the English players came out with a bright smile. But Rohit and Rahul too were ready for the uphill task. They scored quick runs. Rohit was given a boon at the start when Rory Burns missed a half-chance at the slips and we hope Rohit makes this count. The English bowlers bowled tight lines but the openers successfully played the day out. At stumps, the India scorecard read 43/0 trailing by 56. If the Indian bat up to potential the lead is negligible. We are in for another exciting day of cricket.