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Rohit Sharma showcased his astute decision-making prowess with a crucial call for the Decision Review System (DRS) against Zak Crawley just on the brink of lunch on Day 4 of the Visakhapatnam Test between India and England. This strategic move by Rohit led to Kuldeep Yadav picking his first wicket in the very first over of the day, sending Crawley back to the pavilion after a commendable 121-ball 73.
Zak Crawley’s threat
India seized control of the game in the first session of Day 4 by taking five wickets, leaving England with over 200 runs to chase and only four wickets in hand. Despite other visiting batters failing to capitalize on their promising starts, India were determined to dismiss Crawley, who had dominated proceedings with a near-flawless half-century and seemed poised for a century.
Masterstroke by Rohit Sharma : Kuldeep Yadav’s introduction
With key bowlers Axar Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin unable to break the partnership, Rohit turned to Kuldeep just before lunch. The move proved to be a masterstroke as Crawley was deceived by a delivery that kept low and struck him on the pads, prompting a fervent appeal from the Indian team. However, the on-field umpire, Marais Erasmus, remained unmoved, prompting the spinner to consult with the skipper.
Also READ: IND vs ENG: Here’s why Shubman Gill not taking field for India on Day 4 of Vizag Test
Rohit’s decision-making shines as India tightens grip in the Vizag Test
Rohit carefully considered insights from both the bowler and wicketkeeper KS Bharat before deciding to initiate the review. Initial concerns arose about potential excessive turn, suggesting the delivery might miss the stumps or result in an umpire’s call. However, following the third umpire’s decision reversal, an eruption of joy filled the Indian camp, marking a pivotal moment in the game.
Here’s the video:
Review…..successful! ✅☝️
Kuldeep Yadav picks up the big wicket of Crawley to keep #TeamIndia in the driving seat 👊⚡️#BazBowled #IDFCFirstBankTestsSeries #JioCinemaSports#INDvENG pic.twitter.com/c4hMunPVSP
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) February 5, 2024
Jasprit Bumrah continues assault
The Men in Blue continued their dominance in the first session, with Jasprit Bumrah dismissing Jonny Bairstow to further dent England’s hopes, reducing them to 194/6. Despite Bairstow opting for a review, the DRS upheld the on-field decision, extending his struggles on the subcontinent.