IND vs ENG: Get ready for the showdown as India and England lock horns once again in the third Test match of their riveting series. With the score leveled at 1-1, the stakes are high, and every ball counts. Scheduled to commence on February 15th at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot, all eyes are on the pitch, anticipating its role in shaping the game.
Rajkot Stadium Pitch Insights
Traditionally known as a paradise for batsmen, the pitch at Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium has witnessed high-scoring encounters. However, whispers suggest a twist in the tale this time around. Speculations arise that spinners might find more assistance, adding a new dimension to the game. While the initial days are expected to favor batsmen, the latter stages could witness spinners dictating terms. Nevertheless, seamers might also find some purchase, ensuring a balanced contest between bat and ball.
Unveiling the Records
With only two Test matches played at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, the history books paint an intriguing picture. India boasts a victory and a draw on this ground, including a memorable clash against England, which ended in a stalemate. Notably, India’s highest team score of 649/9 was registered here, while the West Indies holds the record for the lowest total of 181/10.
Reliving the 2016 India-England Encounter
In the annals of cricketing history, the 2016 Rajkot Test between India and England holds a special place. The match witnessed a batting spectacle as England piled up 537 runs in their first innings, with Joe Root, Ben Stokes, and Moeen Ali showcasing their prowess. In response, India replied with 488 runs, led by Murali Vijay and Cheteshwar Pujara’s centuries. The game concluded with England declaring at 260/3 in their second innings, resulting in a gripping draw on the final day.
Scouting the Teams
As the battleground awaits, let’s take a glance at the warriors ready to battle it out for their nations:
Indian Team Squad for the Third Test:
- Rohit Sharma (Captain)
- Jasprit Bumrah (Vice-Captain)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Shubman Gill
- Rajat Patidar
- Sarfaraz Khan
- Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper)
- KS Bharat (Wicketkeeper)
- R Ashwin
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Axar Patel
- Washington Sundar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohd. Siraj
- Mukesh Kumar
- Akash Deep
- Devdutt Padikkal
England Squad for the Test Series:
- Ben Stokes (Captain)
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Rehan Ahmed
- Dane Lawrence
- Jonny Bairstow (Wicketkeeper)
- Shoaib Bashir
- Ben Foakes (Wicketkeeper)
- James Anderson
- Gus Atkinson
- Tom Hartley
- Ollie Pope
- Ollie Robinson
- Joe Root
- Mark Wood
Conclusion
As anticipation builds and excitement mounts, all eyes are on the Rajkot Test. With the pitch set to play a pivotal role, fans brace themselves for a thrilling encounter between bat and ball. Will it be the bowlers or the batsmen who leave an indelible mark on the game? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – cricket enthusiasts are in for a treat!
