Bumrah Shines as India Sets Challenging Target Against England in First Test

India's Dominance on Day Two

On the second day of the first Test, Jasprit Bumrah delivered an extraordinary performance, complementing remarkable centuries from skipper Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant. Despite India's strong position, England managed to reach 107 for one at tea.

Ben Duckett (53) and Ollie Pope (48) were at the crease, having formed a solid partnership of 103 runs for the second wicket, but they still trail India's first innings total of 471 by 364 runs.

England aimed for a robust start, but Bumrah's fiery opening spell under overcast skies made it challenging, as he dismissed opener Zak Crawley for just 4 runs.

Bumrah's fast bowling was a sight to behold, with Crawley struggling to find his rhythm, edging the first three deliveries before the fourth resulted in his dismissal, caught by Karun Nair at first slip.

Duckett was fortunate to survive a dropped catch by Ravindra Jadeja when he was on 15, but the pressure Bumrah exerted was not matched by his new ball partner, Mohammed Siraj, who conceded too many runs.

Prasidh Krishna, the third seamer, also faltered in his attempts to find the right length, allowing the batters to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Duckett and Pope took advantage, scoring nearly five runs an over after a rain delay.

Earlier, Pant scored a brilliant 134, while Gill achieved his highest Test score of 147. Despite their efforts, England's bowlers managed to take seven Indian wickets for 112 runs, restricting India to 471.

India resumed play at 359 for three, with Pant taking charge after starting the day on 65, while Gill allowed him to dominate the strike.

The left-handed Pant showcased his flair, notably executing a stunning paddle shot off spinner Bashir, reminiscent of West Indian great Rohan Kanhai.

Smith, the wicketkeeper, missed a straightforward stumping chance off Bashir that could have dismissed Pant at 124, but by then, Pant had already asserted his dominance.

A six over mid-wicket brought him to 94, a score that has historically troubled him, having been dismissed seven times in the 90s in Tests. Thus, it was no surprise when he opted for singles until he reached 99.

Pant quickly transitioned to a one-handed six off Bashir, marking his seventh Test century and surpassing former captain MS Dhoni's record of six centuries for Indian wicketkeepers.

This achievement was particularly sweet for Pant, especially after facing criticism for his shot selection during the Australia tour, which had drawn a harsh remark from Gavaskar. On this occasion, Gavaskar praised him, calling his performance 'superb.'

However, the dismissals of both Pant and Gill provided England with the breakthrough they desperately needed.