India Struggles on Day Two of First Test Against England

India's Disappointing Day in Leeds

On the second day of the first Test match against England in Leeds, India faced a challenging situation. After being bowled out for 471 earlier in the day, the Indian team hoped their bowlers would capitalize on the substantial total. However, apart from Jasprit Bumrah, who performed admirably, the Indian bowling attack failed to make a significant impact, allowing England to finish the day at 209/3.

Fielding Errors Haunt India

Despite holding a first-innings lead of 262 runs, India's fielding left much to be desired. The team missed three straightforward catches, granting England crucial opportunities. The first mishap occurred in the fifth over when Yashasvi Jaiswal dropped a catch, followed by another drop from Ravindra Jadeja, one of India's top fielders, just two overs later.

Barmy Army's Mockery of Jadeja

India's woes continued as Bumrah was deprived of a third wicket when Jaiswal dropped Ollie Pope at third slip, a costly blunder since Pope went on to score a century. This fielding error drew criticism, with England's fan group, the Barmy Army, taking to social media to mock Jadeja for his uncharacteristic mistake. They tweeted: "Thought Ravindra Jadeja was the best fielder in the world? Hmmmm".

England's Resilient Response

Starting the final session at 107/1, England's Duckett and Pope were in solid form, with Duckett scoring 53 and Pope 48. Pope reached his half-century in just 64 balls, hitting eight boundaries, as the duo built a crucial 122-run partnership, putting pressure on the Indian bowlers.

Bumrah's Breakthrough and Pope's Century

Bumrah eventually made a breakthrough by dismissing Duckett for 62 with a remarkable delivery that shattered the middle stump. However, Pope remained steadfast, supported by Joe Root, who narrowly escaped a leg-before wicket review from Mohammed Siraj. Bumrah continued to shine, sending Root back to the pavilion for the 10th time in Tests, as Root edged one to Karun Nair after scoring 28 runs off 58 balls.

End of Day Two: England Gaining Momentum

As the day concluded, England stood at 209/3, still trailing by 262 runs but clearly gaining momentum. Pope was unbeaten on 100, while Harry Brook was yet to score. Earlier, England had bowled India out for 471 after the visitors, who began Day 2 at 359/3, lost their last seven wickets for just 112 runs, a collapse mirrored by their fielding mistakes.