England faced a daunting challenge on the fourth day of the Rajkot Test as they crumbled for just 122 runs in pursuit of India’s mammoth total of 557. Ravindra Jadeja’s brilliant five-wicket haul paved the way for India’s largest Test win by runs – an emphatic margin of 434 runs.
The day began with Shubman Gill aiming for his second century of the series, falling short by nine runs due to a run-out. Despite early setbacks, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sarfaraz Khan showcased aggressive batting, propelling India to a commanding lead of 556 before captain Rohit Sharma declared.
Jaiswal’s audacious innings included an incredible display of hitting, including three successive sixes off James Anderson. He equaled the record for most sixes in an innings in Tests and became only the third batter to score double centuries in two successive Tests. Meanwhile, Sarfaraz also contributed with a blistering half-century.
England’s chase began poorly as they struggled against India’s spinners, particularly Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and R Ashwin. Despite Joe Root’s restraint, England faltered against the sweep shot, leading to a collapse.
Jadeja’s masterful spell saw England lose wickets in quick succession, with Ben Stokes, Joe Root, and Jonny Bairstow among the victims. Despite a brief resistance from Mark Wood, England succumbed to India’s dominance as Jadeja completed his fifer to seal the victory.
With this comprehensive win, India demonstrated their superiority, showcasing formidable batting and bowling performances to outclass England in every aspect of the game.
Brief Scores:
India: 445 & 430/4 decl.
England: 319 & 122
Man of the Match: Ravindra Jadeja