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<p><strong>India vs England 2nd Test Playing XI:&nbsp;</strong>After losing the Hyderabad Test to England, the Indian cricket team faced further challenges as KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja are unavailable for the upcoming Visakhapatnam Test due to injuries.</p>

<p>While Rahul played a crucial role in the middle order during the series opener, Jadeja showcased his all-round abilities with five wickets and a vital 87 in the first innings.</p>

<p>The Indian think tank faces a challenge to make a strategic decision to maintain the balance of the playing XI for the second Test in the absence of both players.</p>

<p>The selectors have introduced Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar and Saurabh Kumar to the squad, which presents a significant challenge for the management to determine the optimal combination for the upcoming fixture. Careful consideration and tough calls are necessary to ensure a well-balanced and competitive team takes the field in Visakhapatnam.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, England has already announced their playing XI for the second Test vs India. The team has made two changes in their lineup from the first Test. James Anderson has replaced Mark Wood in England's Playing 11, while Shoaib Bashir will come in for injured Jack Leach. Bashir missed out on selection in the first match due to a visa issue but will make his Test debut in the upcoming clash.</p>

<p>In a similar situation three years ago, India lost the opening Test to England at Chennai but bounced back to win the series. This time, India plans to fight back against England, led by Joe Root, who redefined the way Test cricket is played and defied all probability to win the series opener after conceding a 190-run lead on a turning track.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India and England have played 132 Test matches against each other since 1932. While England has the upper hand with 51 wins, India has won 31. Out of the 55 games played in India, the hosts have won 22, and England has secured victories in 15, while 28 matches ended in a draw. In terms of series victories, England has won 19 series, while India has won 11 series.</p>

<h2><strong>India vs England 2nd Test Probable Playing XI</strong></h2>

<h3><strong>India Probable Playing XI:</strong></h3>

<p>Rohit Sharma, Yashavi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill. Shreyas Iyer, Rajat Patidar/Sarfaraz Khan, KS Bharat, Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Saurabh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj</p>

<h3><strong>England Playing XI:</strong></h3>

<p>1. Zak Crawley</p>

<p>2. Ben Duckett</p>

<p>3. Ollie Pope</p>

<p>4. Joe Root</p>

<p>5. Jonny Bairstow</p>

<p>6. Ben Stokes (C)</p>

<p>7. Ben Foakes</p>

<p>8. Rehan Ahmed</p>

<p>9. Tom Hartley</p>

<p>10. Shoaib Bashir</p>

<p>11. James Anderson</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India vs England 2nd Test Playing XI: After losing the Hyderabad Test to England, the Indian cricket team faced further challenges as KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja are unavailable for the upcoming Visakhapatnam Test due to injuries.

India vs England 2nd Test Playing XI: After losing the Hyderabad Test to England, the Indian cricket team faced further challenges as KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja are unavailable for the upcoming Visakhapatnam Test due to injuries. While Rahul played a crucial role in the middle order during the series opener, Jadeja showcased his all-round abilities with five wickets and a vital 87 in the first innings. The Indian think tank faces a challenge to make a strategic decision to maintain the balance of the playing XI for the second Test in the absence of both players. The selectors have introduced Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar and Saurabh Kumar to the squad, which presents a significant challenge for the management to determine the optimal combination for the upcoming fixture. Careful consideration and tough calls are necessary to ensure a well-balanced and competitive team takes the field in Visakhapatnam. Meanwhile, England has already announced their playing XI for the second Test vs India. The team has made two changes in their lineup from the first Test. James Anderson has replaced Mark Wood in England's Playing 11, while Shoaib Bashir will come in for injured Jack Leach. Bashir missed out on selection in the first match due to a visa issue but will make his Test debut in the upcoming clash. In a similar situation three years ago, India lost the opening Test to England at Chennai but bounced back to win the series. This time, India plans to fight back against England, led by Joe Root, who redefined the way Test cricket is played and defied all probability to win the series opener after conceding a 190-run lead on a turning track. India and England have played 132 Test matches against each other since 1932. While England has the upper hand with 51 wins, India has won 31. Out of the 55 games played in India, the hosts have won 22, and England has secured victories in 15, while 28 matches ended in a draw. In terms of series victories, England has won 19 series, while India has won 11 series. India vs England 2nd Test Probable Playing XI India Probable Playing XI: Rohit Sharma, Yashavi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill. Shreyas Iyer, Rajat Patidar/Sarfaraz Khan, KS Bharat, Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Saurabh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj England Playing XI: 1. Zak Crawley 2. Ben Duckett 3. Ollie Pope 4. Joe Root 5. Jonny Bairstow 6. Ben Stokes (C) 7. Ben Foakes 8. Rehan Ahmed 9. Tom Hartley 10. Shoaib Bashir 11. James Anderson (With inputs from agencies)

IND vs ENG 2nd Test Playing XI: Check probable playing 11 for India vs England 2nd Test in Vizag

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<p><strong>IND vs ENG 2nd Test Tickets Online:</strong>&nbsp;Dr YS Rajashekar Reddy ACA-VDCA International Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, will host the second Test between India and England. The five-day match will commence on 2 February 2024.</p>

<p>The stadium, which has a seating capacity of 29,000, has witnessed India's triumph in its previous two Test matches, against England in 2016 and South Africa in 2019. The Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) is eager to recreate the same electrifying atmosphere. It has announced several initiatives to encourage spectators.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To begin with, 2000 free tickets will be distributed to school and college students, who can&nbsp;show their valid ID cards and claim their passes at the K Stand to cheer on their favourite players.&nbsp;</p>

<p>That's not all, over 2500 tickets will be reserved each day for local cricketers playing in the five districts around Vizag.</p>

<h2><strong>IND vs ENG 2nd Test: How to book India vs England Test Series tickets</strong></h2>

<p>Here's a step-by-step guide to book tickets for the upcoming India vs England 2nd Test match from 2-6 February 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>STEP 1:&nbsp;</strong>Go to www.insider.in</p>

<p><strong>STEP 2:</strong>&nbsp;Change your location to Visakhapatnam on the website.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>STEP 3:</strong>&nbsp;Under trending events, you'll find the link to book tickets for "IDFC FIRST Bank Series 2nd Test: India vs England, Visakhapatnam." Click on it and you will get direct&nbsp;to another page.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>STEP 4:&nbsp;</strong>If you wish to buy the tickets, click "Buy Now."</p>

<p><strong>STEP 5:</strong>&nbsp;Select your preferred date between 2-6 February 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Note</strong>: If you wish to buy the ticket for more than one day, buy the tickets separately. For instance, the ticket for 2 February will not be applicable on the other days. If you want to purchase tickets for all five days, buy the Season Ticket.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>STEP 6:&nbsp;</strong>After selecting the dates, click on "BOOK."</p>

<p><strong>STEP 7:</strong>&nbsp;Select your preferred seat or filter seats by price. You can get the tickets for India vs England 2nd Test starting at ₹100.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>STEP 8:</strong>&nbsp;Select the number of seats you want to buy. One person can buy up to ten tickets.</p>

<p><strong>STEP 9:&nbsp;</strong>Click on "Buy."</p>

<p><strong>STEP 10:&nbsp;</strong>If you haven't logged in on the Insider app/website yet, do it by entering your email or using Paytm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Enter your pickup details. You can get the directions to the venue on this website. Then click on "CONTINUE."</p>

<p><strong>STEP 12:&nbsp;</strong>Review your order summary and ticket details.</p>

<p><strong>STEP 13:&nbsp;</strong>After reviewing and entering the details, pay for the tickets using online payment methods. You'll receive the tickets on your email.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


IND vs ENG 2nd Test Tickets Online: Dr YS Rajashekar Reddy ACA-VDCA International Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, will host the second Test between India and England.

IND vs ENG 2nd Test Tickets Online: Dr YS Rajashekar Reddy ACA-VDCA International Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, will host the second Test between India and England. The five-day match will commence on 2 February 2024. The stadium, which has a seating capacity of 29,000, has witnessed India's triumph in its previous two Test matches, against England in 2016 and South Africa in 2019. The Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) is eager to recreate the same electrifying atmosphere. It has announced several initiatives to encourage spectators. To begin with, 2000 free tickets will be distributed to school and college students, who can show their valid ID cards and claim their passes at the K Stand to cheer on their favourite players. That's not all, over 2500 tickets will be reserved each day for local cricketers playing in the five districts around Vizag. IND vs ENG 2nd Test: How to book India vs England Test Series tickets Here's a step-by-step guide to book tickets for the upcoming India vs England 2nd Test match from 2-6 February 2024. STEP 1: Go to www.insider.in STEP 2: Change your location to Visakhapatnam on the website. STEP 3: Under trending events, you'll find the link to book tickets for "IDFC FIRST Bank Series 2nd Test: India vs England, Visakhapatnam." Click on it and you will get direct to another page. STEP 4: If you wish to buy the tickets, click "Buy Now." STEP 5: Select your preferred date between 2-6 February 2024. Note: If you wish to buy the ticket for more than one day, buy the tickets separately. For instance, the ticket for 2 February will not be applicable on the other days. If you want to purchase tickets for all five days, buy the Season Ticket. STEP 6: After selecting the dates, click on "BOOK." STEP 7: Select your preferred seat or filter seats by price. You can get the tickets for India vs England 2nd Test starting at ₹100. STEP 8: Select the number of seats you want to buy. One person can buy up to ten tickets. STEP 9: Click on "Buy." STEP 10: If you haven't logged in on the Insider app/website yet, do it by entering your email or using Paytm. Enter your pickup details. You can get the directions to the venue on this website. Then click on "CONTINUE." STEP 12: Review your order summary and ticket details. STEP 13: After reviewing and entering the details, pay for the tickets using online payment methods. You'll receive the tickets on your email. (With inputs from agencies)

IND vs ENG 2nd Test Tickets Online: How to book tickets online for India vs England 2nd Test in Visakhapatnam

<p>England Test team coach Brendon McCullum has fired a warning at Team India as the two nations get ready for the second Test match in Visakhapatnam, starting on Friday (Feb 2). McCullum, who has revolutionised English Test cricket since taking over as coach in 2022, thinks his side is equipped to play an all-spin bowling attack which could put the hosts on the back foot. The English side is boosted by the arrival of Shoaib Bashir after visa issues forced him to sit out of the Hyderabad contest.</p>

<h2><strong>McCullum to go all-spin?</strong></h2>

<p>“He comes into the calculations,” McCullum told New Zealand’s SENZ Radio. “If the wickets continue to spin as much as we saw in the first Test, as the series goes on we won’t be afraid to play all spinners, or a balance of what we’ve got.</p>

<p>“We’ll have a look at conditions and make a call. You’re not going to get every call right, especially over here - it’s hard to read some of the wickets. But we’ll make a decision and go quids in on trying to commit to that. Then we’ll see where we land,” the former New Zealand batter added.</p>

<p>England made a sensational start to the five-match Test series against India after winning the Hyderabad contest by 28 runs on Sunday. Tom Hartley on debut scalped seven wickets in the second innings while Ollie Pope was on fire after scoring a match-winning 196-run knock.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-the-curious-case-of-now-suspended-russian-figure-skater-kamila-valieva-685251">Explained | The curious case of now suspended Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva</a></p>

<p>England already have the spin trio of Jack Leach, Hartley and Rehan Ahmed and with the addition of 20-year-old Shoaib Bashir the spin attack will only get better.</p>

<h2><strong>India on the receiving end of injuries</strong></h2>

<p>While the visitors are on the rise, India are facing issues in both the batting and bowling departments heading into the second match. They will be without KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, with both missing out on the Vizag game due to injuries. Washington Sundar and Sarfaraz Khan have been given SOS, but it is the former who could be preferred to replace Jadeja, while suspense continues over who will replace Rahul with Sarfaraz yet to play at the international level.</p>


England Test team coach Brendon McCullum has fired a warning at Team India as the two nations get ready for the second Test match in Visakhapatnam, starting on Friday (Feb 2).

England Test team coach Brendon McCullum has fired a warning at Team India as the two nations get ready for the second Test match in Visakhapatnam, starting on Friday (Feb 2). McCullum, who has revolutionised English Test cricket since taking over as coach in 2022, thinks his side is equipped to play an all-spin bowling attack which could put the hosts on the back foot. The English side is boosted by the arrival of Shoaib Bashir after visa issues forced him to sit out of the Hyderabad contest. McCullum to go all-spin? “He comes into the calculations,” McCullum told New Zealand’s SENZ Radio. “If the wickets continue to spin as much as we saw in the first Test, as the series goes on we won’t be afraid to play all spinners, or a balance of what we’ve got. “We’ll have a look at conditions and make a call. You’re not going to get every call right, especially over here - it’s hard to read some of the wickets. But we’ll make a decision and go quids in on trying to commit to that. Then we’ll see where we land,” the former New Zealand batter added. England made a sensational start to the five-match Test series against India after winning the Hyderabad contest by 28 runs on Sunday. Tom Hartley on debut scalped seven wickets in the second innings while Ollie Pope was on fire after scoring a match-winning 196-run knock. ALSO READ | Explained | The curious case of now suspended Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva England already have the spin trio of Jack Leach, Hartley and Rehan Ahmed and with the addition of 20-year-old Shoaib Bashir the spin attack will only get better. India on the receiving end of injuries While the visitors are on the rise, India are facing issues in both the batting and bowling departments heading into the second match. They will be without KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, with both missing out on the Vizag game due to injuries. Washington Sundar and Sarfaraz Khan have been given SOS, but it is the former who could be preferred to replace Jadeja, while suspense continues over who will replace Rahul with Sarfaraz yet to play at the international level.

IND vs ENG: England coach Brendon McCullum ready to unleash spin attack, says 'we won’t be afraid to play...'

<p>Former England spinner Monty Panesar has made a bold statement after his side’s eye-catching win against India in Hyderabad on Sunday (Jan 28).&nbsp;Panesar, of Indian origin, reckons England could inflict a whitewash against hosts India if Ollie Pope and Tom Hartley continue to be in superb form. Pope scored 196 runs in the second innings while Hartley scalped seven wickets which helped England win by 28 runs in the first of five Test matches. The win was made more impressive as England were trailing by 190 runs after the first innings and it was the first time India lost a match on home turf after&nbsp;leading by more than 100 runs.</p>

<h2><strong>Panesar’s bold statement</strong></h2>

<p>“If Ollie Pope and Tom Hartley continue to play like this it will be a whitewash, it will be 5-0 for England. It can happen if Ollie Pope and Tom Hartley play like this,” said Panesar while speaking to ANI.</p>

<p>“It is a very big victory, no one even imagined this was even possible. Everyone thought that England would lose after a 190 deficit but Ollie Pope had a brilliant inning one of the best innings we have seen in a long time and Rohit Sharma was clueless,” Panesar added.</p>

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<h2><strong>India suffer catastrophic defeat</strong></h2>

<p>Leading by 190 runs after the first innings, England’s master class led by Pope saw them register an empathic 28-run win at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. After bowling out England for 246, India scored 436 runs in the first innings and established a 190-run lead. However, Pope’s 196-run knock helped England post a lead of 230 runs which proved to be the difference-maker. Chasing 231, India were bowled out for 202 with Tom Hartley scalping seven wickets.</p>

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<p>After the defeat India slipped to the fifth spot from the second in rankings and have two wins and two defeats along with a draw in their five matches of the WTC cycle. India have a win percentage of 43.33 and still have four matches remaining in the five-match Test series. England on the flip side are eighth with a win percentage of 29.16 from six matches. So far, they have won three matches, lost two and drawn one match.</p>

<p>The two nations will square off again in the second Test starting on Friday as India will miss out on the services of KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja who are nursing injuries.</p>


Former England spinner Monty Panesar has made a bold statement after his side’s eye-catching win against India in Hyderabad on Sunday (Jan 28). Panesar, of Indian origin, reckons England could inflict a whitewash against hosts India if Ollie Pope and Tom Hartley continue to be in superb form.

Former England spinner Monty Panesar has made a bold statement after his side’s eye-catching win against India in Hyderabad on Sunday (Jan 28). Panesar, of Indian origin, reckons England could inflict a whitewash against hosts India if Ollie Pope and Tom Hartley continue to be in superb form. Pope scored 196 runs in the second innings while Hartley scalped seven wickets which helped England win by 28 runs in the first of five Test matches. The win was made more impressive as England were trailing by 190 runs after the first innings and it was the first time India lost a match on home turf after leading by more than 100 runs. Panesar’s bold statement “If Ollie Pope and Tom Hartley continue to play like this it will be a whitewash, it will be 5-0 for England. It can happen if Ollie Pope and Tom Hartley play like this,” said Panesar while speaking to ANI. “It is a very big victory, no one even imagined this was even possible. Everyone thought that England would lose after a 190 deficit but Ollie Pope had a brilliant inning one of the best innings we have seen in a long time and Rohit Sharma was clueless,” Panesar added. × India suffer catastrophic defeat Leading by 190 runs after the first innings, England’s master class led by Pope saw them register an empathic 28-run win at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. After bowling out England for 246, India scored 436 runs in the first innings and established a 190-run lead. However, Pope’s 196-run knock helped England post a lead of 230 runs which proved to be the difference-maker. Chasing 231, India were bowled out for 202 with Tom Hartley scalping seven wickets. ALSO READ | Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta upset about reports linking him with Barcelona After the defeat India slipped to the fifth spot from the second in rankings and have two wins and two defeats along with a draw in their five matches of the WTC cycle. India have a win percentage of 43.33 and still have four matches remaining in the five-match Test series. England on the flip side are eighth with a win percentage of 29.16 from six matches. So far, they have won three matches, lost two and drawn one match. The two nations will square off again in the second Test starting on Friday as India will miss out on the services of KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja who are nursing injuries.

'It will be 5-0 for England if...': Ex-spinner Monty Panesar makes bold statement on Eng's whitewash chances

<p>India lost to England by 28 runs in the first Test, of the five-match series, in Hyderabad on Day 4 on Sunday (Jan 28). After the shocking loss, despite India taking a 190-run lead in first innings, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has shared a suggestion for Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. Jaffer feels India need to tweak their opening combination and advised captain Rohit to drop down to No. 3.</p>

<p>Since the West Indies Tests, held in mid-2023, Shubman Gill voluntarily opted to drop down to No. 3 from the opening slot and his spot was taken by Yashasvi Jaiswal. While Jaiswal and Rohit have stitched some big stands already, Jaffer feels Gill is not suited for No. 3 and, hence, asked for Hitman to take Gill's spot, allowing the two youngsters to form an exciting opening pair.</p>

<p>Jaffer wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "Gill and Jaiswal should open and Rohit should bat at no. 3 in the 2nd test in my opinion. Waiting to bat for his turn isn't helping Shubman, it's better he opens the innings. Rohit plays spin really well, so batting at no. 3 should not worry him too much."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Gill and Jaiswal should open and Rohit should bat at no.3 in 2nd test in my opinion. Waiting to bat for his turn isn't helping Shubman, it's better he opens the inn. Rohit plays spin really well, so batting at no.3 should not worry him too much. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a></p>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1751855275706130453?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/havent-seen-a-better-exhibition-india-coach-all-praise-for-englands-ollie-pope-after-defeat-in-1st-test-684709">Haven't seen a better exhibition: India coach all praise for England's Ollie Pope after defeat in 1st Test</a></strong></p>

<p>It will be interesting to see if Rohit drops down to No. 3 -- having had major success as a permanent opener since late 2019. He has scored six centuries and a double ton (212) since becoming a Test opener. On the other hand, Gill has struggled at No. 3; managing 6, 10, 29*, 2, 26, 36, 10, 23 and 0.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>It seems highly unlikely that Rohit-Jaiswal pair will be broken for the second Test versus England in Visakhapatnam. The second Test starts on Feb 2 (Friday) with the hosts trailing 0-1 after a shocking loss in the series opener.</p>


India lost to England by 28 runs in the first Test, of the five-match series, in Hyderabad on Day 4 on Sunday (Jan 28). After the shocking loss, despite India taking a 190-run lead in first innings, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has shared a suggestion for Rohit Sharma & Co.

India lost to England by 28 runs in the first Test, of the five-match series, in Hyderabad on Day 4 on Sunday (Jan 28). After the shocking loss, despite India taking a 190-run lead in first innings, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has shared a suggestion for Rohit Sharma & Co. Jaffer feels India need to tweak their opening combination and advised captain Rohit to drop down to No. 3. Since the West Indies Tests, held in mid-2023, Shubman Gill voluntarily opted to drop down to No. 3 from the opening slot and his spot was taken by Yashasvi Jaiswal. While Jaiswal and Rohit have stitched some big stands already, Jaffer feels Gill is not suited for No. 3 and, hence, asked for Hitman to take Gill's spot, allowing the two youngsters to form an exciting opening pair. Jaffer wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "Gill and Jaiswal should open and Rohit should bat at no. 3 in the 2nd test in my opinion. Waiting to bat for his turn isn't helping Shubman, it's better he opens the innings. Rohit plays spin really well, so batting at no. 3 should not worry him too much." Gill and Jaiswal should open and Rohit should bat at no.3 in 2nd test in my opinion. Waiting to bat for his turn isn't helping Shubman, it's better he opens the inn. Rohit plays spin really well, so batting at no.3 should not worry him too much. #INDvENG — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) January 29, 2024 × Also read: Haven't seen a better exhibition: India coach all praise for England's Ollie Pope after defeat in 1st Test It will be interesting to see if Rohit drops down to No. 3 -- having had major success as a permanent opener since late 2019. He has scored six centuries and a double ton (212) since becoming a Test opener. On the other hand, Gill has struggled at No. 3; managing 6, 10, 29*, 2, 26, 36, 10, 23 and 0. × It seems highly unlikely that Rohit-Jaiswal pair will be broken for the second Test versus England in Visakhapatnam. The second Test starts on Feb 2 (Friday) with the hosts trailing 0-1 after a shocking loss in the series opener.

Ind vs Eng, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma at No. 3? Former opener suggests new opening pair for India

<p>Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin and opener Rohit Sharma jumped several places in the ICC Test Player Rankings after an emphatic win over England in the recently-concluded second Test match.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-still-got-long-way-to-become-consistent-keeper-michael-vaughan-on-rishabh-pant-364210" hreflang="en">'He's still got long way to become consistent keeper': Michael Vaughan on Rishabh Pant</a></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma's 161 runs in the first innings powered India to 329 runs. The prolific opener gained nine places after the gritty knock and is now at 14th position, his best since November 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local boy Ravichandran Ashwin's all-round magic at Chepauk saw him jump 14 places to 81st in the list of batsmen after scoring a gritty ton in the second innings. However, he remains seventh among bowlers after grabbing eight wickets in the match. Chennai-based Ashwin gained 33 rating points to reach within three points of sixth-ranked Stuart Broad and to within 21 of second-ranked Neil Wagner.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-most-likely-to-be-rested-for-white-ball-series-against-england-reports-364183" hreflang="en">Jasprit Bumrah most likely to be rested for white-ball series against England: Reports</a></p>

<p>Upward graph for Rishabh Pant continues after young southpaw's 58 not out in the first innings has helped him continue his upward movement and he is now at a career-best 11th position. Kuldeep Yadav returned to 50th rank, whereas, debutant Axar Patel entered the list at 68th place. Patel got a fifer on his maiden Test match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Losing team England had their share of ups and downs in the updated rankings, spinner Jack Leach gained six places to reach 31st position at a career-best 524 points after grabbing six wickets in the match. However, the remainder slipped down in their rankings, including Ben Stokes, who has lost his top position among all-rounders to West Indies' Jason Holder.</p>


Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin and opener Rohit Sharma jumped several places in the ICC Test Player Rankings after an emphatic win over England in the recently-concluded second Test match.

Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin and opener Rohit Sharma jumped several places in the ICC Test Player Rankings after an emphatic win over England in the recently-concluded second Test match. ALSO READ: 'He's still got long way to become consistent keeper': Michael Vaughan on Rishabh Pant Rohit Sharma's 161 runs in the first innings powered India to 329 runs. The prolific opener gained nine places after the gritty knock and is now at 14th position, his best since November 2019. Local boy Ravichandran Ashwin's all-round magic at Chepauk saw him jump 14 places to 81st in the list of batsmen after scoring a gritty ton in the second innings. However, he remains seventh among bowlers after grabbing eight wickets in the match. Chennai-based Ashwin gained 33 rating points to reach within three points of sixth-ranked Stuart Broad and to within 21 of second-ranked Neil Wagner. ALSO READ: Jasprit Bumrah most likely to be rested for white-ball series against England: Reports Upward graph for Rishabh Pant continues after young southpaw's 58 not out in the first innings has helped him continue his upward movement and he is now at a career-best 11th position. Kuldeep Yadav returned to 50th rank, whereas, debutant Axar Patel entered the list at 68th place. Patel got a fifer on his maiden Test match. Losing team England had their share of ups and downs in the updated rankings, spinner Jack Leach gained six places to reach 31st position at a career-best 524 points after grabbing six wickets in the match. However, the remainder slipped down in their rankings, including Ben Stokes, who has lost his top position among all-rounders to West Indies' Jason Holder.

Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma jump in ICC Test Player Rankings after England win

<p>India's massive win over England would boost the morale of Virat and Co. as they head to match three of the four-match Test series. Team India will host England for a Day/Night Test match at Ahmedabad's newly-constructed Motera stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-still-got-long-way-to-become-consistent-keeper-michael-vaughan-on-rishabh-pant-364210" hreflang="en">'He's still got long way to become consistent keeper': Michael Vaughan on Rishabh Pant</a></p>

<p>The pink-ball Test match at the Motera Ground will be the second match in the country. Former batting great Sunil Gavaskar contemplated India's possible changes for the upcoming Test match. As per former India skipper, the team might go ahead with three pacers and two spinners due to it being a Day/Night fixture.</p>

<p>"Jasprit Bumrah will be there. You're looking at three seam bowlers for sure. It's a pink ball Test so maybe one of the spinners will find themselves out of the team. Most likely it will be Kuldeep because he hasn't had too many opportunities, and Axar and R Ashwin. Ashwin you can’t drop for the next five years. So that will be the attack," Gavaskar said on Star Sports.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-most-likely-to-be-rested-for-white-ball-series-against-england-reports-364183" hreflang="en">Jasprit Bumrah most likely to be rested for white-ball series against England: Reports</a></p>

<p>Yadav went wicketless in the first innings of the Test match (where he bowled six overs), in the second innings, Kuldeep picked up two wickets (Ben Foakes and Moeen Ali). Hardik Pandya's availability as bowler still remains in doubt as the all-rounder was seen practising at the Motera Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>'I'm not sure if Hardik Pandya is fit enough to bowl because if he is, he can also slot in and India might actually go with a combination depending on the surface. I don't know what the surface at the new Motera will be like, but my feeling is that they will definitely go with three seam bowlers and two spinners," the former India captain stated.</p>

<p>Gavaskar was sure of Bumrah returning to the team to bolster the bowling attack for Team India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Bumrah for sure will be back in the team. You'll probably have a new-ball attack in Bumrah, Ishant Sharma and Mohammed Siraj as your three new-ball bowlers, and Kuldeep… he may find himself out of the team because it's a pink-ball Test. The ball does tend to do a little bit more as evening approaches. And once you play under lights, it's a completely different seam so I would imagine that would be the only change, Bumrah coming in place of Kuldeep."</p>


India's massive win over England would boost the morale of Virat and Co. as they head to match three of the four-match Test series. Team India will host England for a Day/Night Test match at Ahmedabad's newly-constructed Motera stadium.

India's massive win over England would boost the morale of Virat and Co. as they head to match three of the four-match Test series. Team India will host England for a Day/Night Test match at Ahmedabad's newly-constructed Motera stadium. ALSO READ: 'He's still got long way to become consistent keeper': Michael Vaughan on Rishabh Pant The pink-ball Test match at the Motera Ground will be the second match in the country. Former batting great Sunil Gavaskar contemplated India's possible changes for the upcoming Test match. As per former India skipper, the team might go ahead with three pacers and two spinners due to it being a Day/Night fixture. "Jasprit Bumrah will be there. You're looking at three seam bowlers for sure. It's a pink ball Test so maybe one of the spinners will find themselves out of the team. Most likely it will be Kuldeep because he hasn't had too many opportunities, and Axar and R Ashwin. Ashwin you can’t drop for the next five years. So that will be the attack," Gavaskar said on Star Sports. ALSO READ: Jasprit Bumrah most likely to be rested for white-ball series against England: Reports Yadav went wicketless in the first innings of the Test match (where he bowled six overs), in the second innings, Kuldeep picked up two wickets (Ben Foakes and Moeen Ali). Hardik Pandya's availability as bowler still remains in doubt as the all-rounder was seen practising at the Motera Stadium. 'I'm not sure if Hardik Pandya is fit enough to bowl because if he is, he can also slot in and India might actually go with a combination depending on the surface. I don't know what the surface at the new Motera will be like, but my feeling is that they will definitely go with three seam bowlers and two spinners," the former India captain stated. Gavaskar was sure of Bumrah returning to the team to bolster the bowling attack for Team India. "Bumrah for sure will be back in the team. You'll probably have a new-ball attack in Bumrah, Ishant Sharma and Mohammed Siraj as your three new-ball bowlers, and Kuldeep… he may find himself out of the team because it's a pink-ball Test. The ball does tend to do a little bit more as evening approaches. And once you play under lights, it's a completely different seam so I would imagine that would be the only change, Bumrah coming in place of Kuldeep."

'So that will be the attack..': Gavaskar predicts India's possible XI ahead of pink-ball Test

<p>Team India have suffered a major injury scare as opener Shubman Gill did not take the field for India on Day 4 in the ongoing Test match against England. According to an update provided by BCCI, Gill has been taken for scans after he took a blow to his arm while fielding on Day 3.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-loses-cool-after-umpires-call-hands-joe-root-a-lifeline-363823" hreflang="en">Watch: Virat Kohli loses cool after 'umpire's call' hands Joe Root a lifeline</a></p>

<p>"Shubman Gill sustained a blow on his left forearm while fielding on Day 3 of the 2nd Test. He has been taken for a precautionary scan. The BCCI Medical Team is assessing him. He won't be fielding today," the BCCI tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">UPDATE - Shubman Gill sustained a blow on his left forearm while fielding on Day 3 of the 2nd Test. He has been taken for a precautionary scan. The BCCI Medical Team is assessing him. He won't be fielding today.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/ph0GJsqpFi">pic.twitter.com/ph0GJsqpFi</a></p>
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<p>Gill suffered a blow on the left forearm while fielding at forward short leg on Day 3 of the Test match after on of the English batsman's sweep shot hit the opener.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shubman did not have a great outing in the&nbsp;match as he was dismissed for his maiden Test duck in the first innings when he was out LBW to England pacer Olly Stone. The 21-year-old scored 14 runs in the second innings before being dismissed by Jack Leach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India, currently, are on top of the match with just four wickets needed to level the series against England.&nbsp;</p>


Team India have suffered a major injury scare as opener Shubman Gill did not take the field for India on Day 4 in the ongoing Test match against England. According to an update provided by BCCI, Gill has been taken for scans after he took a blow to his arm while fielding on Day 3.

Team India have suffered a major injury scare as opener Shubman Gill did not take the field for India on Day 4 in the ongoing Test match against England. According to an update provided by BCCI, Gill has been taken for scans after he took a blow to his arm while fielding on Day 3. ALSO READ: Watch: Virat Kohli loses cool after 'umpire's call' hands Joe Root a lifeline "Shubman Gill sustained a blow on his left forearm while fielding on Day 3 of the 2nd Test. He has been taken for a precautionary scan. The BCCI Medical Team is assessing him. He won't be fielding today," the BCCI tweeted. UPDATE - Shubman Gill sustained a blow on his left forearm while fielding on Day 3 of the 2nd Test. He has been taken for a precautionary scan. The BCCI Medical Team is assessing him. He won't be fielding today.#INDvENG pic.twitter.com/ph0GJsqpFi — BCCI (@BCCI) February 16, 2021 × Gill suffered a blow on the left forearm while fielding at forward short leg on Day 3 of the Test match after on of the English batsman's sweep shot hit the opener. Shubman did not have a great outing in the match as he was dismissed for his maiden Test duck in the first innings when he was out LBW to England pacer Olly Stone. The 21-year-old scored 14 runs in the second innings before being dismissed by Jack Leach. India, currently, are on top of the match with just four wickets needed to level the series against England.

'He won't be fielding today': Reason behind Shubman Gill's absence on Day 4

<p>Ravichandran Ashwin was adjudged the Man of the Match after a splendid performance in the second Test match between India and England, where hosts thrashed the visitors by 317 runs.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-india-jump-to-2nd-place-after-chennai-test-win-check-updated-points-table-364014" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship: India jump to 2nd place after Chennai Test win - Check updated points table</a></p>

<p>The local boy got a&nbsp;hero's reception after scalping eight wickets and scoring a gritty ton in the second innings. While receiving the 'Player of the Match' award, Ashwin said: "I am enjoying my game and am really happy it happened in Chennai. Every load up gives a different result in terms of which way the pitch is behaving."</p>

<p>The 34-year-old went on to bond with the crowd present at the Chepauk Stadium. He shared an anecdote in his native language (Tamil), Ashwin said: "As an eight year old I have come here on these very stands to watch cricket. I have played four Test matches here and easily this is the most special."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-axar-patel-joins-elite-list-after-a-five-wicket-haul-on-debut-363985" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Axar Patel joins elite list after a five-wicket haul on debut</a></p>

<p>"I get a hero's feeling here playing cricket here. In Covid times this knowledgeable crowd came out in big numbers."</p>

<p>"They were 1-0 without the crowd, and we made it 1-1 with them. Hopefully, we can take it forward."</p>

<p>The impressive win pushed India to the second spot with the win percentage of 69.7 percentage points on the points table. However, another loss could prove fatal for Virat and Co. as they need at least 2-1 or 3-1 win in the series to qualify for the final of the maiden edition of the championship. Both teams are currently levelled at 1-1.&nbsp;</p>


Ravichandran Ashwin was adjudged the Man of the Match after a splendid performance in the second Test match between India and England, where hosts thrashed the visitors by 317 runs.

Ravichandran Ashwin was adjudged the Man of the Match after a splendid performance in the second Test match between India and England, where hosts thrashed the visitors by 317 runs. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship: India jump to 2nd place after Chennai Test win - Check updated points table The local boy got a hero's reception after scalping eight wickets and scoring a gritty ton in the second innings. While receiving the 'Player of the Match' award, Ashwin said: "I am enjoying my game and am really happy it happened in Chennai. Every load up gives a different result in terms of which way the pitch is behaving." The 34-year-old went on to bond with the crowd present at the Chepauk Stadium. He shared an anecdote in his native language (Tamil), Ashwin said: "As an eight year old I have come here on these very stands to watch cricket. I have played four Test matches here and easily this is the most special." ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Axar Patel joins elite list after a five-wicket haul on debut "I get a hero's feeling here playing cricket here. In Covid times this knowledgeable crowd came out in big numbers." "They were 1-0 without the crowd, and we made it 1-1 with them. Hopefully, we can take it forward." The impressive win pushed India to the second spot with the win percentage of 69.7 percentage points on the points table. However, another loss could prove fatal for Virat and Co. as they need at least 2-1 or 3-1 win in the series to qualify for the final of the maiden edition of the championship. Both teams are currently levelled at 1-1.

'As an 8-year-old...': Emotional R Ashwin shares childhood tale about Chepauk stadium

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b33d3220-b53b-486f-aeb8-f7e024d93087}{203}" paraid="2042639716" >The Indian cricket team on Tuesday recorded their biggest-ever Test win against England in terms of runs as the Virat Kohli-led outfit defeated the visitors by 317 runs in the second match of the four-Test series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{8866b7be-8deb-45a0-8154-ca5025bb897a}{108}" paraid="1499937038" >The 317-run margin is also India's fifth-highest ever win by runs as the hosts&nbsp;topped&nbsp;their previous biggest win against England (279-run win) at the&nbsp;Headingley&nbsp;in 1986.&nbsp;Overall, against all the opponents, India's 337-run win against South Africa in Delhi in the 2015-16 series remains the biggest followed by a 321-run win over New Zealand in Indore in 2016-17.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7cc995a1-4acf-4071-b697-7eea6066b9f8}{248}" paraid="935995037" >Third in the list remains India's massive 320-run win against Australia in Mohali in the 2009 series followed by a 318-run win over the West Indies in North Sound, Antigua in 2019.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7cc995a1-4acf-4071-b697-7eea6066b9f8}{248}" paraid="935995037" >ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indians-never-crib-about-overseas-conditions-r-ashwin-shuts-down-chennai-pitch-critics-364029" hreflang="en">Indians never crib about overseas conditions: R Ashwin shuts down Chennai pitch critics</a></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{463099ec-2957-4813-890d-b396a30e7ea4}{234}" paraid="1558742709" >Notably, India's five of India's top six highest margins of wins (in terms of runs) have come under the leadership of Virat Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{48739035-a540-4aef-bf1d-0534550b9036}{168}" paraid="1341085606" >Biggest Test wins for India (by runs)&nbsp;</h2>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{48739035-a540-4aef-bf1d-0534550b9036}{168}" paraid="1341085606" >337 vs SA Delhi 2015/16&nbsp;<br />
321 vs NZ Indore 2016/17&nbsp;<br />
320 vs Aus Mohali 2008/09&nbsp;<br />
318 vs WI North Sound 2019&nbsp;<br />
317 vs Eng Chennai 2020/21&nbsp;<br />
304 vs SL Galle 2017&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b33d3220-b53b-486f-aeb8-f7e024d93087}{183}" paraid="1333788562" >&nbsp;England lost the second Test&nbsp;in Chennai&nbsp;by 317 runs as India drew level in the four-match series.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7be6c4de-7aa6-4a5a-a4f6-1d9e04288fdd}{106}" paraid="623322828" >"It was a bit strange in the first game to be playing at home with empty stands. We were pretty flat on the first two days over there to be pretty honest, myself included, didn't pick up energy on the field. But from the second innings onwards in the first game, we picked up and were on the money in terms of our body language,” skipper Virat Kohli told host broadcasters in the post-match presentation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7be6c4de-7aa6-4a5a-a4f6-1d9e04288fdd}{106}" paraid="623322828" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-india-jump-to-2nd-place-after-chennai-test-win-check-updated-points-table-364014" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship: India jump to 2nd place after Chennai Test win - Check updated points table</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7be6c4de-7aa6-4a5a-a4f6-1d9e04288fdd}{154}" paraid="1340397043" >"The crowds make a big&nbsp;difference,&nbsp;this game was an example of the grit and determination this side shows and the crowd is a big part of that. Chennai crowd are very intelligent, they understand their cricket really well. In a&nbsp;15-20 minute&nbsp;period where the bowler needs the support of the crowd, it is my responsibility to involve everyone and bring in the crowd. If I am running in to bowl in this heat, I need people to motivate me. It is a perfect game for us,” he added.&nbsp;</p>


The Indian cricket team on Tuesday recorded their biggest-ever Test win against England in terms of runs as the Virat Kohli-led outfit defeated the visitors by 317 runs in the second match of the four-Test series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

The Indian cricket team on Tuesday recorded their biggest-ever Test win against England in terms of runs as the Virat Kohli-led outfit defeated the visitors by 317 runs in the second match of the four-Test series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The 317-run margin is also India's fifth-highest ever win by runs as the hosts topped their previous biggest win against England (279-run win) at the Headingley in 1986. Overall, against all the opponents, India's 337-run win against South Africa in Delhi in the 2015-16 series remains the biggest followed by a 321-run win over New Zealand in Indore in 2016-17. Third in the list remains India's massive 320-run win against Australia in Mohali in the 2009 series followed by a 318-run win over the West Indies in North Sound, Antigua in 2019. ALSO READ: Indians never crib about overseas conditions: R Ashwin shuts down Chennai pitch critics Notably, India's five of India's top six highest margins of wins (in terms of runs) have come under the leadership of Virat Kohli. Biggest Test wins for India (by runs) 337 vs SA Delhi 2015/16 321 vs NZ Indore 2016/17 320 vs Aus Mohali 2008/09 318 vs WI North Sound 2019 317 vs Eng Chennai 2020/21 304 vs SL Galle 2017 England lost the second Test in Chennai by 317 runs as India drew level in the four-match series. "It was a bit strange in the first game to be playing at home with empty stands. We were pretty flat on the first two days over there to be pretty honest, myself included, didn't pick up energy on the field. But from the second innings onwards in the first game, we picked up and were on the money in terms of our body language,” skipper Virat Kohli told host broadcasters in the post-match presentation. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship: India jump to 2nd place after Chennai Test win - Check updated points table "The crowds make a big difference, this game was an example of the grit and determination this side shows and the crowd is a big part of that. Chennai crowd are very intelligent, they understand their cricket really well. In a 15-20 minute period where the bowler needs the support of the crowd, it is my responsibility to involve everyone and bring in the crowd. If I am running in to bowl in this heat, I need people to motivate me. It is a perfect game for us,” he added.

India's 2nd Test win in Chennai is their biggest win against England by runs

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5765510c-8550-4d52-953f-5f9919d12476}{143}" paraid="697540086" >India on Tuesday completed a massive 317-run win over England in what was the second Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. India with the win, levelled the series 1-1 with the next two Test scheduled to be played in Ahmedabad. There were plenty of opinions and debate surrounding the Chennai pitch in the second Test as the ball spun from Day 1 with Indian spinners and batsmen dominating the proceedings from the word go.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{6963bf92-0280-4821-b3e2-ea48a1820d11}{201}" paraid="557155263" >While Indian batsmen showed how to bat on a 'rank-turner', the Chennai strip irked some of the former cricketers as they expressed their displeasure surrounding the spinning track in the second Test. Veteran Indian spinner&nbsp;Ravichandran Ashwin, after the match&nbsp;said while everyone is within their rights to give their opinions, legends like Sunil Gavaskar or Ravi Shastri never cribbed or complained about the conditions when Team India played overseas tours.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{13c1455a-f124-4d9d-97f6-99fc22995d71}{41}" paraid="385063731" >The likes of Michael Vaughan, Matt Prior, Mark Waugh had earlier said that the Chennai pitch for the second Test wasn't prepared to play for five matches thus terming it as a 'beach'. However, Indian batters, over the course of two innings, scored two centuries (Rohit Sharma and Ashwin), and three half-centuries (Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant and Virat Kohli).&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Spot on Junior .. 👍 <a href="https://t.co/jZpsZoQQ3E">https://t.co/jZpsZoQQ3E</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1360912714353287173?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It’s entertaining cricket as things are happening all the time but let’s be honest this Pitch is a shocker .. Not making any excuses as India have been better but this isn’t a Test Match 5 day prepared Pitch ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1360843448639778818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-an-8-year-old-emotional-r-ashwin-shares-childhood-tale-about-chepauk-stadium-364027" hreflang="en">'As an 8-year-old...': Emotional R Ashwin shares childhood tale about Chepauk stadium</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you, Chennai 🙏🙏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/3AOPyyD7h2">pic.twitter.com/3AOPyyD7h2</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1361623073800163328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Everyone is entitled to their opinion and whoever is giving an opinion is well within their rights of giving an opinion.&nbsp;It's&nbsp;us who are reading into it and&nbsp;seeing if&nbsp;it is working or not.&nbsp;As cricketing fraternity or&nbsp;as a country dealing with such accusation (regarding the Chennai pitch)&nbsp;seems to get a little better. We must hold pride in how we are playing our cricket&nbsp;and obviously, Test matches are won over a period of time. You play a lot of overs and win matches,” Ashwin, who was named the Man of the Match for his eight wickets and century.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b8e31401-3487-4316-8198-acaeb5a64829}{188}" paraid="1876626513" >"When people give their opinions and I am fine with it. We also give our opinions when we tour abroad.&nbsp;But we don't complain or crib, we just get on with it. We haven't seen our greats be it Sunil Gavaskar or Ravi Shastri, they have been on a&nbsp;lot of tours. I haven't seen them complain about a lot of grass or something like that.&nbsp;It's&nbsp;more of a mentality. When&nbsp;people come with such opinions, we should magnanimously deflect it,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b8e31401-3487-4316-8198-acaeb5a64829}{188}" paraid="1876626513" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-india-jump-to-2nd-place-after-chennai-test-win-check-updated-points-table-364014" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship: India jump to 2nd place after Chennai Test win - Check updated points table</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">💯 in the second innings<br />
8⃣ wickets in the match<a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> is the well-deserved Man Of The Match in the 2nd <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> Test for his incredible all-round performance at Chepauk. 👏👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/5v0FhxfwB1">pic.twitter.com/5v0FhxfwB1</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1361600888834461700?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ashwin&nbsp;dismissed England's talisman Ben Stokes both the times in the second Test in Chennai with the veteran Indian spinner showing his class with the ball. While it was an unplayable, loopy off-spinner to get rid of the all-rounder in the first innings, Ashwin bowled a straighter one to find the edge of Stokes’ bat in the second innings.&nbsp;After the match, he shed light on how he planned Stokes’ dismissal.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{eb008e02-51e4-4b92-8470-48f655c508fe}{129}" paraid="1512283129" >"We all know what a fine player Ben (Stokes) is. It is more about trying to change angles against him. There was a lot of deviation&nbsp;from&nbsp;the surface.&nbsp;They&nbsp;weren't amazing balls that got wickets, it was&nbsp;more of the mind games that were being played. It was about staying positive. It was about bowling in the right areas, some of the balls got massive deviation, some of the balls were dying. In the first innings, I wanted to push the ball up&nbsp;so that I can get him to play an aggressive shot. In this innings, he was defending a lot. There was a bit of cross breeze so I tried to change my load-up,” Ashwin explained.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{eb008e02-51e4-4b92-8470-48f655c508fe}{129}" paraid="1512283129" >Ashwin was paired up against the likes of&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel – a debutant – and&nbsp;Kuldeep Yadav, who was playing the first Test since January 2019. While&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;was the one who bowled in tandem with Ashwin for the majority of the match, Kuldeep also chipped in and ended up with two wickets in the second innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{eb008e02-51e4-4b92-8470-48f655c508fe}{129}" paraid="1512283129" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-is-one-of-the-greatest-stats-prove-it-363775" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it!</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9549f79c-b9ca-45a3-ac40-0535573d55b0}{153}" paraid="23142133" >"Jaddu&nbsp;(Ravindra Jadeja)&nbsp;is a massive presence in the team. I have been playing with him for years. I don't&nbsp;know how many matches we have played without each other in India but I thought&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;bowled beautifully, in the second innings he got his rewards. One of the ends was a touch slower, the other end had a bit of pace.&nbsp;Th end from which I was bowling was slow.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{00e1d722-4d02-442b-8251-52fe4396a807}{65}" paraid="1073580988" >"We believed Kuldeep might be&nbsp;effective from the other end. I thought Kuldeep bowled beautifully today. Sometimes as a spinner, when you are bowling after a long time&nbsp;and are wanting to get that confidence, early wickets become important. And the moment, he started to get the batsmen driving, he was always going to be effective.&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;did his role. He played his role to perfection,” Ashwin concluded.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{eb008e02-51e4-4b92-8470-48f655c508fe}{95}" paraid="309414176" >India and England will now head to&nbsp;Ahmedabad for the last two Test of the series with the third match being the pink-ball Test, starting from February 24.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{eb008e02-51e4-4b92-8470-48f655c508fe}{84}" paraid="738692707" >&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


India on Tuesday completed a massive 317-run win over England in what was the second Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. India with the win, levelled the series 1-1 with the next two Test scheduled to be played in Ahmedabad.

India on Tuesday completed a massive 317-run win over England in what was the second Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. India with the win, levelled the series 1-1 with the next two Test scheduled to be played in Ahmedabad. There were plenty of opinions and debate surrounding the Chennai pitch in the second Test as the ball spun from Day 1 with Indian spinners and batsmen dominating the proceedings from the word go. While Indian batsmen showed how to bat on a 'rank-turner', the Chennai strip irked some of the former cricketers as they expressed their displeasure surrounding the spinning track in the second Test. Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, after the match said while everyone is within their rights to give their opinions, legends like Sunil Gavaskar or Ravi Shastri never cribbed or complained about the conditions when Team India played overseas tours. The likes of Michael Vaughan, Matt Prior, Mark Waugh had earlier said that the Chennai pitch for the second Test wasn't prepared to play for five matches thus terming it as a 'beach'. However, Indian batters, over the course of two innings, scored two centuries (Rohit Sharma and Ashwin), and three half-centuries (Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant and Virat Kohli). Spot on Junior .. 👍 https://t.co/jZpsZoQQ3E — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 14, 2021 × It’s entertaining cricket as things are happening all the time but let’s be honest this Pitch is a shocker .. Not making any excuses as India have been better but this isn’t a Test Match 5 day prepared Pitch ... #INDvENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 14, 2021 × ALSO READ: 'As an 8-year-old...': Emotional R Ashwin shares childhood tale about Chepauk stadium Thank you, Chennai 🙏🙏#TeamIndia #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/3AOPyyD7h2 — BCCI (@BCCI) February 16, 2021 × "Everyone is entitled to their opinion and whoever is giving an opinion is well within their rights of giving an opinion. It's us who are reading into it and seeing if it is working or not. As cricketing fraternity or as a country dealing with such accusation (regarding the Chennai pitch) seems to get a little better. We must hold pride in how we are playing our cricket and obviously, Test matches are won over a period of time. You play a lot of overs and win matches,” Ashwin, who was named the Man of the Match for his eight wickets and century. "When people give their opinions and I am fine with it. We also give our opinions when we tour abroad. But we don't complain or crib, we just get on with it. We haven't seen our greats be it Sunil Gavaskar or Ravi Shastri, they have been on a lot of tours. I haven't seen them complain about a lot of grass or something like that. It's more of a mentality. When people come with such opinions, we should magnanimously deflect it,” he added. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship: India jump to 2nd place after Chennai Test win - Check updated points table 💯 in the second innings 8⃣ wickets in the match@ashwinravi99 is the well-deserved Man Of The Match in the 2nd @Paytm #INDvENG Test for his incredible all-round performance at Chepauk. 👏👏 #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/5v0FhxfwB1 — BCCI (@BCCI) February 16, 2021 × Ashwin dismissed England's talisman Ben Stokes both the times in the second Test in Chennai with the veteran Indian spinner showing his class with the ball. While it was an unplayable, loopy off-spinner to get rid of the all-rounder in the first innings, Ashwin bowled a straighter one to find the edge of Stokes’ bat in the second innings. After the match, he shed light on how he planned Stokes’ dismissal. "We all know what a fine player Ben (Stokes) is. It is more about trying to change angles against him. There was a lot of deviation from the surface. They weren't amazing balls that got wickets, it was more of the mind games that were being played. It was about staying positive. It was about bowling in the right areas, some of the balls got massive deviation, some of the balls were dying. In the first innings, I wanted to push the ball up so that I can get him to play an aggressive shot. In this innings, he was defending a lot. There was a bit of cross breeze so I tried to change my load-up,” Ashwin explained. Ashwin was paired up against the likes of Axar Patel – a debutant – and Kuldeep Yadav, who was playing the first Test since January 2019. While Axar was the one who bowled in tandem with Ashwin for the majority of the match, Kuldeep also chipped in and ended up with two wickets in the second innings. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it! "Jaddu (Ravindra Jadeja) is a massive presence in the team. I have been playing with him for years. I don't know how many matches we have played without each other in India but I thought Axar bowled beautifully, in the second innings he got his rewards. One of the ends was a touch slower, the other end had a bit of pace. Th end from which I was bowling was slow. "We believed Kuldeep might be effective from the other end. I thought Kuldeep bowled beautifully today. Sometimes as a spinner, when you are bowling after a long time and are wanting to get that confidence, early wickets become important. And the moment, he started to get the batsmen driving, he was always going to be effective. Axar did his role. He played his role to perfection,” Ashwin concluded. India and England will now head to Ahmedabad for the last two Test of the series with the third match being the pink-ball Test, starting from February 24.

Indians never crib about overseas conditions: R Ashwin shuts down Chennai pitch critics

<p>India's left-arm spinner Axar Patel's five-wicket haul in his debut match played a crucial role in the second Test match, where hosts thrashed England by 317 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-wont-be-fielding-today-reason-behind-shubman-gills-absence-on-day-4-363943" hreflang="en">'He won't be fielding today': Reason behind Shubman Gill's absence on Day 4</a></p>

<p>Axar became the 9th Indian player to take a five-wicket haul on Test debut and only the second left-arm spinner after Dilip Doshi to take a five-for in his debut Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2nd-test-r-ashwin-axar-patel-star-as-india-thrash-england-by-317-runs-363964">IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Ashwin, Axar star as India thrash England by 317 runs</a></p>

<p>Coincidently, Dilip Doshi's debut fifer came at the same venue (Chepauk Stadium) against Australia back in 1979.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Spinners taking five-fer on Test debut for India</strong></h2>

<p>5/64 - VV Kumar v Pak, Delhi 1960/61<br />
6/103 - D Doshi v Aus, Chennai 1979/80<br />
8/61 &amp; 8/75 - N Hirwani v WI, Chennai 1987/88<br />
5/71 - Amit Mishra v Aus, Mohali 2008/09<br />
6/47 - R Ashwin v WI, Delhi 2011/12<br />
5/41 - Axar Patel v Eng, Chennai 2020/21</p>

<p>"It was a good experience, to get a five-wicket haul on debut is special. As Kuldeep said, there was much happening on the pitch.</p>

<p>"It was about varying your speed and I just kept doing it. Forced the batsman to make mistakes. On the first day itself, it was turning. So, we bowled tight lines and got the rewards," Axar Patel said after the match.</p>


India's left-arm spinner Axar Patel's five-wicket haul in his debut match played a crucial role in the second Test match, where hosts thrashed England by 317 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday.

India's left-arm spinner Axar Patel's five-wicket haul in his debut match played a crucial role in the second Test match, where hosts thrashed England by 317 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday. ALSO READ: 'He won't be fielding today': Reason behind Shubman Gill's absence on Day 4 Axar became the 9th Indian player to take a five-wicket haul on Test debut and only the second left-arm spinner after Dilip Doshi to take a five-for in his debut Test. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Ashwin, Axar star as India thrash England by 317 runs Coincidently, Dilip Doshi's debut fifer came at the same venue (Chepauk Stadium) against Australia back in 1979. Spinners taking five-fer on Test debut for India 5/64 - VV Kumar v Pak, Delhi 1960/61 6/103 - D Doshi v Aus, Chennai 1979/80 8/61 & 8/75 - N Hirwani v WI, Chennai 1987/88 5/71 - Amit Mishra v Aus, Mohali 2008/09 6/47 - R Ashwin v WI, Delhi 2011/12 5/41 - Axar Patel v Eng, Chennai 2020/21 "It was a good experience, to get a five-wicket haul on debut is special. As Kuldeep said, there was much happening on the pitch. "It was about varying your speed and I just kept doing it. Forced the batsman to make mistakes. On the first day itself, it was turning. So, we bowled tight lines and got the rewards," Axar Patel said after the match.

IND vs ENG: Axar Patel joins elite list after a five-wicket haul on debut

<p>India level the four-match series after handing a 317-run defeat to England in the second Test at the Chepauk stadium at Chennai on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-does-the-whistle-podu-to-get-the-chennai-crowd-going-363578" hreflang="en">WATCH: Virat Kohli does the 'whistle podu' to get the Chennai crowd going</a></p>

<p>England were on the back foot right from Day 1 after a mammoth ton by Rohit Sharma that powered India to 329 runs in the first innings. The difficult pitch provided a much-needed advantage to India's spin-duo (Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel), as local boy Ashwin picked up a fifer after restricting 134 runs giving a 195-run lead to the hosts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-gives-thumbs-up-to-top-team-india-363684" hreflang="en">Pakistan PM Imran Khan gives thumbs up to 'top team' India</a></p>

<p>In the second innings, Indian batsmen faced plenty of difficulties as the hosts were down to 106/6. But a 94-run stand between skipper Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin put India back in commanding position. Chennai-based Ashwin went on to score a hundred in front of his local crowd powering to 286 runs by the end of the second innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fleeting-view-prime-minister-narendra-modi-cheers-for-team-india-from-the-skies-363552" hreflang="en">'Fleeting view': Prime Minister Narendra Modi cheers for Team India from the skies</a></p>

<p>England, in return, failed to stun the hosts as Axar, Ashwin, and Kuldeep kept the visitors puzzled with their spin. Despite Moeen Ali's last-minute heroics, England were&nbsp;bowled out on 164 runs giving a comfortable win to Virat and Co.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Axar Patel picked a fifer in his debut match. "It was a good experience, to get five-wicket haul on debut is special. As Kuldeep said, there was much happening on the pitch. It was about varying your speed and I just kept doing it. Forced the batsman to make mistakes. On the first day itself, it was turning. So, we bowled tight lines and got the rewards," said Axar Patel.</p>

<p>With this win, India jump to the second position at the WTC points table. The current series is level at 1-1 with two more matches to go.&nbsp;</p>


India level the four-match series after handing a 317-run defeat to England in the second Test at the Chepauk stadium at Chennai on Tuesday. ALSO READ: WATCH: Virat Kohli does the 'whistle podu' to get the Chennai crowd going England were on the back foot right from Day 1 after a mammoth ton by Rohit Sharma that powered India to 329 runs in the first innings.

India level the four-match series after handing a 317-run defeat to England in the second Test at the Chepauk stadium at Chennai on Tuesday. ALSO READ: WATCH: Virat Kohli does the 'whistle podu' to get the Chennai crowd going England were on the back foot right from Day 1 after a mammoth ton by Rohit Sharma that powered India to 329 runs in the first innings. The difficult pitch provided a much-needed advantage to India's spin-duo (Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel), as local boy Ashwin picked up a fifer after restricting 134 runs giving a 195-run lead to the hosts. ALSO READ: Pakistan PM Imran Khan gives thumbs up to 'top team' India In the second innings, Indian batsmen faced plenty of difficulties as the hosts were down to 106/6. But a 94-run stand between skipper Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin put India back in commanding position. Chennai-based Ashwin went on to score a hundred in front of his local crowd powering to 286 runs by the end of the second innings. ALSO READ: 'Fleeting view': Prime Minister Narendra Modi cheers for Team India from the skies England, in return, failed to stun the hosts as Axar, Ashwin, and Kuldeep kept the visitors puzzled with their spin. Despite Moeen Ali's last-minute heroics, England were bowled out on 164 runs giving a comfortable win to Virat and Co. Axar Patel picked a fifer in his debut match. "It was a good experience, to get five-wicket haul on debut is special. As Kuldeep said, there was much happening on the pitch. It was about varying your speed and I just kept doing it. Forced the batsman to make mistakes. On the first day itself, it was turning. So, we bowled tight lines and got the rewards," said Axar Patel. With this win, India jump to the second position at the WTC points table. The current series is level at 1-1 with two more matches to go.

IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: R Ashwin, Axar Patel star as India thrash England by 317 runs

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fee14d51-debb-4bcb-8f05-88edf2e92ec6}{53}" paraid="1889808745" >Former Indian captain and a legend of cricket, Sunil Gavaskar has ripped into the critics questioning the quality of the pitch in the second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Former England cricketers Michael Vaughan&nbsp;and Matt Prior are among those who have heavily&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;the Chennai pitch for being a 'rank turner' and a 'dustbowl' as it&nbsp;assisted&nbsp;the spinners from Day 1 of the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4cead2e3-74e0-4c15-ba84-4d8e4e900d71}{152}" paraid="2085188760" >While India posted 329 runs in the first innings following Rohit Sharma's sensational 161-run knock, England were outplayed by the Indian spinners with Ravichandran Ashwin picking up his 29th&nbsp;fifer in Test cricket. England were bundled out for 134 runs as&nbsp;former England cricketers came out with their critical takes on the pitch.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It didn’t do anywhere near as much for 2 sessions ... Spun but not like what it’s doing now ... India would have drawn the first Test if they had batted anything like in the 1st innings ... This isn’t a good Test match pitch ... <a href="https://t.co/HhK6dYLiHm">https://t.co/HhK6dYLiHm</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1360851288762814465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When have we ever been able to prepare a green pitch? Always did the complete opposite because the club CEO wanted it to go five days! 100% agree on taking notes though. Any chance of you being able to speak to and help our spinners at all??</p>
— Matt Prior (@MattPrior13) <a href="https://twitter.com/MattPrior13/status/1360936650797428739?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Hitting back at the critics over the Chennai pitch, Gavaskar said that it is always about Indian pitches when it starts to turn from Day 1 while adding no one bats an eye when seaming pitches are prepared in England.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-gives-thumbs-up-to-top-team-india-363684" hreflang="en">Pakistan PM Imran Khan gives thumbs up to 'top team' India</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f802e129-26fb-42e6-981f-4549558e53be}{203}" paraid="2069260635" >"We saw how Rohit Sharma getting 150, and yesterday he was getting close to ball and batting. This criticism (on pitch) is pretty warranted," Gavaskar said on Star Sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a5086718-21f2-46cd-869e-c136beeab765}{141}" paraid="1612747735" >"Some of them are saying that - but you have a seaming pitch in England. Australia&nbsp;get&nbsp;dismissed for 46 - the ball keeps seeming all throughout. No one talks about that. It's always about Indian pitches, and when the ball starts to turn, people pose a problem," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a5086718-21f2-46cd-869e-c136beeab765}{141}" paraid="1612747735" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-does-the-whistle-podu-to-get-the-chennai-crowd-going-363578" hreflang="en">WATCH: Virat Kohli does the 'whistle podu' to get the Chennai crowd going</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a5086718-21f2-46cd-869e-c136beeab765}{150}" paraid="331388770" >While Rohit smashed a cracking century, Rahane scored a sublime 67 with Rishabh Pant ending up with unbeaten 58.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a5086718-21f2-46cd-869e-c136beeab765}{195}" paraid="322238915" >"It's not unplayable. It's a challenging pitch, and that's what cricket should be about. In the first Test, on the first two days, when nothing was happening, people were saying 'it's boring, nothing is happening. It's so easy to bat.' So, there has to be a bit of balance between what is said. You cannot be complaining all the time," the former India captain added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c6799ad1-3330-4545-8f0f-db9b8c35889b}{95}" paraid="284392786" >Meanwhile, batting at the same Chennai pitch on Day 3, the Indian team has posted 156/6 on Lunch. Both Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin have been stitching a solid partnership and will look to continue the run-flow in the next session.&nbsp;</p>


Former Indian captain and a legend of cricket, Sunil Gavaskar has ripped into the critics questioning the quality of the pitch in the second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Former Indian captain and a legend of cricket, Sunil Gavaskar has ripped into the critics questioning the quality of the pitch in the second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Former England cricketers Michael Vaughan and Matt Prior are among those who have heavily criticised the Chennai pitch for being a 'rank turner' and a 'dustbowl' as it assisted the spinners from Day 1 of the match. While India posted 329 runs in the first innings following Rohit Sharma's sensational 161-run knock, England were outplayed by the Indian spinners with Ravichandran Ashwin picking up his 29th fifer in Test cricket. England were bundled out for 134 runs as former England cricketers came out with their critical takes on the pitch. It didn’t do anywhere near as much for 2 sessions ... Spun but not like what it’s doing now ... India would have drawn the first Test if they had batted anything like in the 1st innings ... This isn’t a good Test match pitch ... https://t.co/HhK6dYLiHm — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 14, 2021 × When have we ever been able to prepare a green pitch? Always did the complete opposite because the club CEO wanted it to go five days! 100% agree on taking notes though. Any chance of you being able to speak to and help our spinners at all?? — Matt Prior (@MattPrior13) February 14, 2021 × Hitting back at the critics over the Chennai pitch, Gavaskar said that it is always about Indian pitches when it starts to turn from Day 1 while adding no one bats an eye when seaming pitches are prepared in England. ALSO READ: Pakistan PM Imran Khan gives thumbs up to 'top team' India "We saw how Rohit Sharma getting 150, and yesterday he was getting close to ball and batting. This criticism (on pitch) is pretty warranted," Gavaskar said on Star Sports. "Some of them are saying that - but you have a seaming pitch in England. Australia get dismissed for 46 - the ball keeps seeming all throughout. No one talks about that. It's always about Indian pitches, and when the ball starts to turn, people pose a problem," he added. ALSO READ: WATCH: Virat Kohli does the 'whistle podu' to get the Chennai crowd going While Rohit smashed a cracking century, Rahane scored a sublime 67 with Rishabh Pant ending up with unbeaten 58. "It's not unplayable. It's a challenging pitch, and that's what cricket should be about. In the first Test, on the first two days, when nothing was happening, people were saying 'it's boring, nothing is happening. It's so easy to bat.' So, there has to be a bit of balance between what is said. You cannot be complaining all the time," the former India captain added. Meanwhile, batting at the same Chennai pitch on Day 3, the Indian team has posted 156/6 on Lunch. Both Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin have been stitching a solid partnership and will look to continue the run-flow in the next session.

'When ball starts to turn...': Sunil Gavaskar hammers critics for slamming Chennai pitch in 2nd Test

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{51ffcb26-8df0-4871-aad1-496073a1f491}{239}" paraid="117578722" >As Ravichandran Ashwin completed his fifth Test century in the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, non-striker Mohammed Siraj celebrated&nbsp;by jumping and fist-pumping on air as the video of his celebration went viral on social media platforms.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fab7d872-b6c7-48ca-b919-242d8c2f64d3}{93}" paraid="1594278059" >Siraj ground out 12 deliveries before Ashwin got to his fifth Test century in what were some nervy moments for not only Ashwin but also for the entire crowd at&nbsp;Chepauk.&nbsp;The Indian pacer had to face the likes of Moeen Ali and Jack Leach on a turning track on Day 3 of the ongoing Chennai Test but ground out the balls to survive.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c0186f13-54f2-4eb0-a6e9-8642540da799}{86}" paraid="1050878294" >Ashwin took a while to get to his century but Siraj made sure to not lose his wickets as it would have denied Ashwin a well-deserved century on a challenging track. However, Ashwin got to his century after a mistimed shot as a thick edge beat the slips to race towards the boundary rope towards the third-man region.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{51ffcb26-8df0-4871-aad1-496073a1f491}{248}" paraid="2006917155" >While Indian players and staff gave a rousing ovation to Ashwin from the dressing room, it was Siraj's celebration that caught the eyes of netizens.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{51ffcb26-8df0-4871-aad1-496073a1f491}{248}" paraid="2006917155" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-is-one-of-the-greatest-stats-prove-it-363775" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it!</a></strong></p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{51ffcb26-8df0-4871-aad1-496073a1f491}{248}" paraid="2006917155" >Here's how social media reacted to Mohammed Siraj's celebration after Ashwin's century in Chennai:</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The way Siraj celebrated the hundred of Ashwin makes him so special. <a href="https://t.co/hYJcEda89y">pic.twitter.com/hYJcEda89y</a></p>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1361253763923668993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A moment to cherish forever! <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> gets his Test💯 in Chennai and Md. Siraj erupts in joy. The dressing room stands up to applaud.🙌🏾 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@paytm</a> <a href="https://t.co/ykrBhsiTbl">pic.twitter.com/ykrBhsiTbl</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1361260111902072832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Oh man look at Siraj ❤<br />
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This team is ❤❤❤❤ <a href="https://t.co/LpucU4kwhJ">pic.twitter.com/LpucU4kwhJ</a></p>
— jd (@j_dhillon7) <a href="https://twitter.com/j_dhillon7/status/1361253947172745218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Siraj's reaction to Ashwin's hundred is wonderful ❤<br />
<br />
Maybe his teammates do like him after all.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/BS9MGFG37C">pic.twitter.com/BS9MGFG37C</a></p>
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/WisdenCricket/status/1361260791681470473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thats-how-you-bat-on-dustbowl-twitter-explodes-after-kohli-ashwin-register-50s-on-beach-chennai-pitch-363725" hreflang="en">'That's how you bat on dustbowl': Twitter explodes after Kohli, Ashwin register 50s on 'beach' Chennai pitch</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{611c08ee-94bf-47a8-9fbf-b05065f6257c}{1}" paraid="2100501666" >With his century on Monday, Ashwin surpassed the likes of Gary Sobers, Jacques Kallis, Shakib Al Hasan and Mushtaq Mohammad to achieve a fifer and a century.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{72f76ebe-b5b3-4f5f-8442-eba8e8460049}{25}" paraid="591340808" >While Sobers, Kallis, Shakib, Mushtaq all had achieved the unique double of a fifer and a century in Test cricket twice,&nbsp;Ashwin with his century and heroic effort with the ball in the second Test against England in Chennai, has now completed the feat thrice. Only Ian Botham had achieved the landmark five times in his Test career.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a1a81b91-93af-4f5f-90ae-3c480d9d1674}{30}" paraid="1511742596" >Meanwhile, England need 482 runs to win the second Test in Chennai but with the conditions&nbsp;favouring&nbsp;Indian bowlers, a series&nbsp;equaliser&nbsp;is on the cards.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


As Ravichandran Ashwin completed his fifth Test century in the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, non-striker Mohammed Siraj celebrated by jumping and fist-pumping on air as the video of his celebration went viral on social media platforms.

As Ravichandran Ashwin completed his fifth Test century in the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, non-striker Mohammed Siraj celebrated by jumping and fist-pumping on air as the video of his celebration went viral on social media platforms. Siraj ground out 12 deliveries before Ashwin got to his fifth Test century in what were some nervy moments for not only Ashwin but also for the entire crowd at Chepauk. The Indian pacer had to face the likes of Moeen Ali and Jack Leach on a turning track on Day 3 of the ongoing Chennai Test but ground out the balls to survive. Ashwin took a while to get to his century but Siraj made sure to not lose his wickets as it would have denied Ashwin a well-deserved century on a challenging track. However, Ashwin got to his century after a mistimed shot as a thick edge beat the slips to race towards the boundary rope towards the third-man region. While Indian players and staff gave a rousing ovation to Ashwin from the dressing room, it was Siraj's celebration that caught the eyes of netizens. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it! Here's how social media reacted to Mohammed Siraj's celebration after Ashwin's century in Chennai: The way Siraj celebrated the hundred of Ashwin makes him so special. pic.twitter.com/hYJcEda89y — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 15, 2021 × A moment to cherish forever! @ashwinravi99 gets his Test💯 in Chennai and Md. Siraj erupts in joy. The dressing room stands up to applaud.🙌🏾 #TeamIndia #INDvENG @paytm pic.twitter.com/ykrBhsiTbl — BCCI (@BCCI) February 15, 2021 × Oh man look at Siraj ❤ This team is ❤❤❤❤ pic.twitter.com/LpucU4kwhJ — jd (@j_dhillon7) February 15, 2021 × Siraj's reaction to Ashwin's hundred is wonderful ❤ Maybe his teammates do like him after all.#INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/BS9MGFG37C — Wisden (@WisdenCricket) February 15, 2021 × ALSO READ: 'That's how you bat on dustbowl': Twitter explodes after Kohli, Ashwin register 50s on 'beach' Chennai pitch With his century on Monday, Ashwin surpassed the likes of Gary Sobers, Jacques Kallis, Shakib Al Hasan and Mushtaq Mohammad to achieve a fifer and a century. While Sobers, Kallis, Shakib, Mushtaq all had achieved the unique double of a fifer and a century in Test cricket twice, Ashwin with his century and heroic effort with the ball in the second Test against England in Chennai, has now completed the feat thrice. Only Ian Botham had achieved the landmark five times in his Test career. Meanwhile, England need 482 runs to win the second Test in Chennai but with the conditions favouring Indian bowlers, a series equaliser is on the cards.

Watch: Mohammed Siraj's celebration wins hearts as R Ashwin completes his 5th Test century

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{42bd6529-2c93-4bbb-9fc6-20dcd9c80915}{116}" paraid="680433239" >Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday produced batting masterclass on a 'beach' Chennai pitch as the duo scored&nbsp;a half-century each to extend India's lead in the second innings to over 350 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{635f0909-63d2-4df5-b4a7-b363cce1e1c6}{192}" paraid="711106217" >While England batsmen were outplayed by the Indian bowlers on Day 2, Ashwin and Kohli showed the visitors how to bat on a 'rank turner' as the duo tackled the English spin duo of Jack Leach and Moeen Ali with ease.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9fd72db8-250f-4fa4-81d2-da620e5d962e}{68}" paraid="1577851888" >With former England cricketers such as Michael Vaughan and Matt Prior&nbsp;criticising&nbsp;the Chennai pitch on Day 2 of the match after England were bowled out for a paltry 134,&nbsp;the Indian batters, especially Kohli and Ashwin produced batting of the highest caliber to register their respective half-century.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9fd72db8-250f-4fa4-81d2-da620e5d962e}{68}" paraid="1577851888" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-ball-starts-to-turn-sunil-gavaskar-hammers-critics-for-slamming-chennai-pitch-in-2nd-test-363703" hreflang="en">'When ball starts to turn...': Sunil Gavaskar hammers critics for slamming Chennai pitch in 2nd Test</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">He may not get a 100 but this <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> innings has been an masterclass on this pitch ... its already 100 balls of batting that all coaches should show players on how to play on a Beach ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1361208244258103302?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It’s entertaining cricket as things are happening all the time but let’s be honest this Pitch is a shocker .. Not making any excuses as India have been better but this isn’t a Test Match 5 day prepared Pitch ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1360843448639778818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Twitterati celebrated half-centuries of Kohli and Ashwin as India look on verge of winning the second Test to&nbsp;equalise&nbsp;the series 1-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-gives-thumbs-up-to-top-team-india-363684" hreflang="en">Pakistan PM Imran Khan gives thumbs up to 'top team' India</a></strong></p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a4c37608-d81b-4dc3-a8c5-da75ccfa279b}{26}" paraid="1977482560" >Here's how Twitterati reacted to the half-century by Kohli and Ashwin</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">He’s the greatest batter in the game of cricket playing right now - <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>!<br />
<br />
England didn’t pick their best team so can’t complain.<br />
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Missing Jimmy, BIG TIME!</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1361210956991369216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sometimes in Test Cricket a 50 you make in challenging conditions and situation will be more satisfying than a 200 you make on a flat pitch. I am sure this is one such innings for <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> A master class on how to play on a turning track. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/8NYs7fTMAk">pic.twitter.com/8NYs7fTMAk</a></p>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1361213759889416196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fifty in second innings in first Test.<br />
Fifty in second innings in second Test.<br />
<br />
Both was tough pitch to bat on and best of the best stands tall for India - Virat Kohli.</p>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1361210930525179907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kohli is majestic. This is a masterclass in how to bat on a ploughed field. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a></p>
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) <a href="https://twitter.com/piersmorgan/status/1361207061128839168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Appreciation tweet for Ash Anna</p>
— A (@_shortarmjab_) <a href="https://twitter.com/_shortarmjab_/status/1361211855209852931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ash Anna giving English team their own medicine ' sweep and reverse sweep ' . <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pitch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pitch</a> <a href="https://t.co/13XNXRw50B">pic.twitter.com/13XNXRw50B</a></p>
— Kushal Gowda (@Kushalg77328189) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kushalg77328189/status/1361197641594408962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ash anna showing england batsman how to bat on turners rather than crying <a href="https://t.co/Od7in2K9xw">pic.twitter.com/Od7in2K9xw</a></p>
— Siddarth (@Adelaide__141) <a href="https://twitter.com/Adelaide__141/status/1361216705171656706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Not only did Kohli and Ashwin shut critics of the Chennai pitch with their&nbsp;quality batting display, former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar also lashed out at the critics for&nbsp;unnecessary&nbsp;slamming the quality of the strip in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{79be3f71-b5d3-4c5d-8e05-87089e22f407}{233}" paraid="1981234176" >"We saw how Rohit Sharma getting 150, and yesterday he was getting close to ball and batting. This criticism (on pitch) is pretty warranted," Gavaskar said on Star Sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{79be3f71-b5d3-4c5d-8e05-87089e22f407}{244}" paraid="346886169" >"Some of them are saying that - but you have a seaming pitch in England. Australia&nbsp;get&nbsp;dismissed for 46 - the ball keeps seeming all throughout. No one talks about that. It's always about Indian pitches, and when the ball starts to turn, people pose a problem," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{79be3f71-b5d3-4c5d-8e05-87089e22f407}{223}" paraid="1118768860" >With Kohli and Ashwin still batting, the Indian duo would be looking to convert their 50+ scores to a century to make this Test even more special, moreover in front of the fans.&nbsp;</p>


Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday produced batting masterclass on a 'beach' Chennai pitch as the duo scored a half-century each to extend India's lead in the second innings to over 350 runs.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday produced batting masterclass on a 'beach' Chennai pitch as the duo scored a half-century each to extend India's lead in the second innings to over 350 runs. While England batsmen were outplayed by the Indian bowlers on Day 2, Ashwin and Kohli showed the visitors how to bat on a 'rank turner' as the duo tackled the English spin duo of Jack Leach and Moeen Ali with ease. With former England cricketers such as Michael Vaughan and Matt Prior criticising the Chennai pitch on Day 2 of the match after England were bowled out for a paltry 134, the Indian batters, especially Kohli and Ashwin produced batting of the highest caliber to register their respective half-century. ALSO READ: 'When ball starts to turn...': Sunil Gavaskar hammers critics for slamming Chennai pitch in 2nd Test He may not get a 100 but this @imVkohli innings has been an masterclass on this pitch ... its already 100 balls of batting that all coaches should show players on how to play on a Beach ... #INDvsENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 15, 2021 × It’s entertaining cricket as things are happening all the time but let’s be honest this Pitch is a shocker .. Not making any excuses as India have been better but this isn’t a Test Match 5 day prepared Pitch ... #INDvENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 14, 2021 × Twitterati celebrated half-centuries of Kohli and Ashwin as India look on verge of winning the second Test to equalise the series 1-1. ALSO READ: Pakistan PM Imran Khan gives thumbs up to 'top team' India Here's how Twitterati reacted to the half-century by Kohli and Ashwin He’s the greatest batter in the game of cricket playing right now - @imVkohli! England didn’t pick their best team so can’t complain. Missing Jimmy, BIG TIME! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) February 15, 2021 × Sometimes in Test Cricket a 50 you make in challenging conditions and situation will be more satisfying than a 200 you make on a flat pitch. I am sure this is one such innings for @imVkohli A master class on how to play on a turning track. #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/8NYs7fTMAk — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) February 15, 2021 × Fifty in second innings in first Test. Fifty in second innings in second Test. Both was tough pitch to bat on and best of the best stands tall for India - Virat Kohli. — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 15, 2021 × Kohli is majestic. This is a masterclass in how to bat on a ploughed field. #INDvENG — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) February 15, 2021 × Appreciation tweet for Ash Anna — A (@_shortarmjab_) February 15, 2021 × Ash Anna giving English team their own medicine ' sweep and reverse sweep ' . #INDvsENG #Pitch pic.twitter.com/13XNXRw50B — Kushal Gowda (@Kushalg77328189) February 15, 2021 × Ash anna showing england batsman how to bat on turners rather than crying pic.twitter.com/Od7in2K9xw — Siddarth (@Adelaide__141) February 15, 2021 × Not only did Kohli and Ashwin shut critics of the Chennai pitch with their quality batting display, former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar also lashed out at the critics for unnecessary slamming the quality of the strip in Chennai. "We saw how Rohit Sharma getting 150, and yesterday he was getting close to ball and batting. This criticism (on pitch) is pretty warranted," Gavaskar said on Star Sports. "Some of them are saying that - but you have a seaming pitch in England. Australia get dismissed for 46 - the ball keeps seeming all throughout. No one talks about that. It's always about Indian pitches, and when the ball starts to turn, people pose a problem," he added. With Kohli and Ashwin still batting, the Indian duo would be looking to convert their 50+ scores to a century to make this Test even more special, moreover in front of the fans.

'That's how you bat on dustbowl': Twitter explodes after Kohli, Ashwin register 50s on 'beach' Chennai pitch

<p>India seized control of the second test after their spinners wreaked havoc on a dustbowl and skittled out England for 134 at Chennai`s MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-does-the-whistle-podu-to-get-the-chennai-crowd-going-363578" hreflang="en">WATCH: Virat Kohli does the 'whistle podu' to get the Chennai crowd going</a><br />
<br />
The hosts finished day two on 54-1 for an overall lead of 249 runs on a deteriorating track.<br />
<br />
Rohit Sharma, who smashed 161 in the first innings, was batting on 25 with Cheteshwar Pujara on seven at the other end.<br />
<br />
Earlier, Moeen Ali and Olly Stone split the last four Indian wickets as the hosts added 29 runs to their overnight score before being all out for 329 in their first innings.<br />
<br />
Rishabh Pant was left stranded on 58 not out, having hit three sixes in his 77-ball blitz.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fleeting-view-prime-minister-narendra-modi-cheers-for-team-india-from-the-skies-363552" hreflang="en">'Fleeting view': Prime Minister Narendra Modi cheers for Team India from the skies</a></p>

<p>When they returned, India unleashed their three-pronged spin attack as they looked to level the series at 1-1.<br />
<br />
On a pitch where the ball was kicking up dust, England`s reply got off to a woeful start as they lost four wickets before lunch.<br />
<br />
Ishant Sharma trapped Rory Burns lbw for a duck and Dom Sibley fell for 16 after India successfully reviewed a not-out decision.<br />
<br />
Debutant Axar Patel dealt the biggest blow by dismissing Joe Root for six to claim his maiden test wicket.<br />
<br />
The England captain, whose proficiency against spin would have been crucial on this pitch, fluffed his sweep shot offering a top-edge to Ravichandran Ashwin at short fine-leg.<br />
<br />
The touring side`s middle-order caved in after the interval.<br />
<br />
Ashwin claimed the important wicket of Ben Stokes, dismissing the all-rounder bowled for 18.<br />
<br />
India did not feel the need to use second seamer Mohammed Siraj until the 39th over.<br />
<br />
Finally pressed into the attack, Siraj ended Ollie Pope`s promising knock of 22 with his first delivery.<br />
<br />
Ben Foakes, playing his first match of the four-test series, top-scored with an unbeaten 42 as England avoided the follow-on but conceded a first-innings lead of 195 runs.<br />
<br />
Ashwin returned figures of 5-43 while Ishant and Patel claimed two wickets apiece.</p>


India seized control of the second test after their spinners wreaked havoc on a dustbowl and skittled out England for 134 at Chennai`s MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday.

India seized control of the second test after their spinners wreaked havoc on a dustbowl and skittled out England for 134 at Chennai`s MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday. ALSO READ: WATCH: Virat Kohli does the 'whistle podu' to get the Chennai crowd going The hosts finished day two on 54-1 for an overall lead of 249 runs on a deteriorating track. Rohit Sharma, who smashed 161 in the first innings, was batting on 25 with Cheteshwar Pujara on seven at the other end. Earlier, Moeen Ali and Olly Stone split the last four Indian wickets as the hosts added 29 runs to their overnight score before being all out for 329 in their first innings. Rishabh Pant was left stranded on 58 not out, having hit three sixes in his 77-ball blitz. ALSO READ: 'Fleeting view': Prime Minister Narendra Modi cheers for Team India from the skies When they returned, India unleashed their three-pronged spin attack as they looked to level the series at 1-1. On a pitch where the ball was kicking up dust, England`s reply got off to a woeful start as they lost four wickets before lunch. Ishant Sharma trapped Rory Burns lbw for a duck and Dom Sibley fell for 16 after India successfully reviewed a not-out decision. Debutant Axar Patel dealt the biggest blow by dismissing Joe Root for six to claim his maiden test wicket. The England captain, whose proficiency against spin would have been crucial on this pitch, fluffed his sweep shot offering a top-edge to Ravichandran Ashwin at short fine-leg. The touring side`s middle-order caved in after the interval. Ashwin claimed the important wicket of Ben Stokes, dismissing the all-rounder bowled for 18. India did not feel the need to use second seamer Mohammed Siraj until the 39th over. Finally pressed into the attack, Siraj ended Ollie Pope`s promising knock of 22 with his first delivery. Ben Foakes, playing his first match of the four-test series, top-scored with an unbeaten 42 as England avoided the follow-on but conceded a first-innings lead of 195 runs. Ashwin returned figures of 5-43 while Ishant and Patel claimed two wickets apiece.

IND vs ENG, Day 2: India stretch lead after spinners wreck England in Chennai

<p>Indian cricket fans returned to the stands after over a year in the second Test match between India and England. Indian cricket fans returned to the stands for the first time since October 2019 after BCCI gave their nod for spectators to return. The Indian cricket board have allowed 33,000 fans to enter the MA Chidambaram stadium for the crucial second Test match between India and England.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fleeting-view-prime-minister-narendra-modi-cheers-for-team-india-from-the-skies-363552" hreflang="en">'Fleeting view': Prime Minister Narendra Modi cheers for Team India from the skies</a></p>

<p>Virat Kohli, who is known to perform well in front of the crowd, was spotted gesturing towards the fans on the stands. The skipper urged them to up the volume and cheer for the team as the bowlers were dismissing the English batsmen. He did a "whistle podu" gesture, which is a catchphrase for Indian Premier League franchise Chennai Super Kings.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When in Chennai, you <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a>! 👌👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> skipper <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> egging the Chepauk crowd on &amp; they do not disappoint. 👏👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a><br />
<br />
Follow the match 👉 <a href="https://t.co/Hr7Zk2kjNC">https://t.co/Hr7Zk2kjNC</a> <a href="https://t.co/JR6BfvRqtZ">pic.twitter.com/JR6BfvRqtZ</a></p>
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<p>Despite the club rivalries, skipper Kohli urged the crowd to cheer for the team.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-ashwin-overtakes-harbhajan-singh-in-elite-list-after-dismissing-ben-stokes-363543" hreflang="en">Ravi Ashwin overtakes Harbhajan Singh in elite list after dismissing Ben Stokes</a></p>

<p>Local boy Ravichandran Ashwin picked up a five-wicket haul as India restricted England to 134, taking a massive 195-run lead. Indian batsmen Rohit Sharma and &nbsp;Cheteshwar Pujara are on the crease as the hosts ended with a lead of 249 runs and nine wickets in hand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India are looking to level the series after losing the opener at the same venue by 227 runs.</p>


Indian cricket fans returned to the stands after over a year in the second Test match between India and England. Indian cricket fans returned to the stands for the first time since October 2019 after BCCI gave their nod for spectators to return.

Indian cricket fans returned to the stands after over a year in the second Test match between India and England. Indian cricket fans returned to the stands for the first time since October 2019 after BCCI gave their nod for spectators to return. The Indian cricket board have allowed 33,000 fans to enter the MA Chidambaram stadium for the crucial second Test match between India and England. ALSO READ: 'Fleeting view': Prime Minister Narendra Modi cheers for Team India from the skies Virat Kohli, who is known to perform well in front of the crowd, was spotted gesturing towards the fans on the stands. The skipper urged them to up the volume and cheer for the team as the bowlers were dismissing the English batsmen. He did a "whistle podu" gesture, which is a catchphrase for Indian Premier League franchise Chennai Super Kings. When in Chennai, you #WhistlePodu! 👌👌#TeamIndia skipper @imVkohli egging the Chepauk crowd on & they do not disappoint. 👏👏 @Paytm #INDvENG Follow the match 👉 https://t.co/Hr7Zk2kjNC pic.twitter.com/JR6BfvRqtZ — BCCI (@BCCI) February 14, 2021 × Despite the club rivalries, skipper Kohli urged the crowd to cheer for the team. ALSO READ: Ravi Ashwin overtakes Harbhajan Singh in elite list after dismissing Ben Stokes Local boy Ravichandran Ashwin picked up a five-wicket haul as India restricted England to 134, taking a massive 195-run lead. Indian batsmen Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara are on the crease as the hosts ended with a lead of 249 runs and nine wickets in hand. India are looking to level the series after losing the opener at the same venue by 227 runs.

WATCH: Virat Kohli does the 'whistle podu' to get the Chennai crowd going

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday took to Twitter to share a sky-view image of the Chepauk Stadium where the Test match between India and England is on.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-ashwin-overtakes-harbhajan-singh-in-elite-list-after-dismissing-ben-stokes-363543" hreflang="en">Ravi Ashwin overtakes Harbhajan Singh in elite list after dismissing Ben Stokes</a></p>

<p>PM Modi arrived in Chennai to launch various government programmes in Tamil Nadu, including the hand over of the indigenously developed Arjun Main Battle Tank (Mark 1A) tanks to Army Chief General MM Naravane.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the event, Narendra Modi shared an image on social media which showed the aerial view of the Chepauk Stadium to which the Indian PM wrote: "Caught a fleeting view of an interesting test match in Chennai."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Caught a fleeting view of an interesting test match in Chennai. 🏏 🇮🇳 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 <a href="https://t.co/3fqWCgywhk">pic.twitter.com/3fqWCgywhk</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1360872166175113217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/probably-in-the-next-tier-alastair-cook-lauds-rohit-sharmas-aggressive-knock-363524" hreflang="en">'Probably in the next tier': Alastair Cook lauds Rohit Sharma's aggressive knock</a></p>

<p>India are on top in the match against England as the visitors are down to 106 for 8 before Tea on Day 2. England trails by 223 runs to India. Ravichandran Ashwin scalped four wickets, with Axar removing two and Siraj, Ishant sharing a man each.&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday took to Twitter to share a sky-view image of the Chepauk Stadium where the Test match between India and England is on.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday took to Twitter to share a sky-view image of the Chepauk Stadium where the Test match between India and England is on. ALSO READ: Ravi Ashwin overtakes Harbhajan Singh in elite list after dismissing Ben Stokes PM Modi arrived in Chennai to launch various government programmes in Tamil Nadu, including the hand over of the indigenously developed Arjun Main Battle Tank (Mark 1A) tanks to Army Chief General MM Naravane. After the event, Narendra Modi shared an image on social media which showed the aerial view of the Chepauk Stadium to which the Indian PM wrote: "Caught a fleeting view of an interesting test match in Chennai." Caught a fleeting view of an interesting test match in Chennai. 🏏 🇮🇳 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 pic.twitter.com/3fqWCgywhk — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 14, 2021 × ALSO READ: 'Probably in the next tier': Alastair Cook lauds Rohit Sharma's aggressive knock India are on top in the match against England as the visitors are down to 106 for 8 before Tea on Day 2. England trails by 223 runs to India. Ravichandran Ashwin scalped four wickets, with Axar removing two and Siraj, Ishant sharing a man each.

'Fleeting view': Prime Minister Narendra Modi cheers for Team India from the skies

<p>Skipper Virat Kohli was received with a warm reception of cheers by cricket fans while walking out for toss in the crucial second Test match against England as crowds return to Indian stadium after over a year.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/difficult-decision-england-skipper-joe-root-opts-out-of-ipl-2021-auction-363163" hreflang="en">'Difficult decision': England skipper Joe Root opts out of IPL 2021 auction</a></p>

<p>Indian cricket fans returned to the stands for the first time since October 2019 after BCCI gave their nod for spectators to return. The Indian cricket board have allowed 33,000 fans to enter the MA Chidambaram stadium for the crucial second Test match between India and England.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's good to have you back <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> fans 💙<br />
<br />
Chepauk 🏟️ has come alive courtesy you 🤗 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://t.co/QVYISf40O1">pic.twitter.com/QVYISf40O1</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1360440552244748290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>As per the commentators, fourteen to fifteen thousand fans were present in the stadium at the time of toss on Saturday. The spectators were allowed to the stadium as COVID graph in India is on the decline.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO SEE:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ind-vs-eng-2nd-test-fans-flock-to-stadium-as-chennai-gears-up-to-welcome-crowd-362939" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Fans flock to stadium as Chennai gears up to welcome crowd</a></p>

<p>Former Indian batsman VVS Laxman took to Twitter and said: "Glad Fans are back in the stadium for the 2nd #IndvEng test in Chennai. They are the biggest stakeholders and an integral part of our sport and I expect them to make a massive difference. Good toss to win for India and hope they make it count by scoring big in the 1st innings."</p>

<p>Virat Kohli went on to win a crucial toss ahead of the Test match as Team India is looking to bounce back in the four-match series. England are currently 1-0 up after a mammoth 227-run win in the first Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former India opener Wasim Jaffer expressed his happiness on social media. He said: "Very happy to see fans back at the Chepauk. The fans are the heartbeat of our sport. Indian cricket wouldn't be as big as it is today if not for the constant support of passionate fans. #INDvsENG"</p>


Skipper Virat Kohli was received with a warm reception of cheers by cricket fans while walking out for toss in the crucial second Test match against England as crowds return to Indian stadium after over a year.

Skipper Virat Kohli was received with a warm reception of cheers by cricket fans while walking out for toss in the crucial second Test match against England as crowds return to Indian stadium after over a year. ALSO READ: 'Difficult decision': England skipper Joe Root opts out of IPL 2021 auction Indian cricket fans returned to the stands for the first time since October 2019 after BCCI gave their nod for spectators to return. The Indian cricket board have allowed 33,000 fans to enter the MA Chidambaram stadium for the crucial second Test match between India and England. It's good to have you back #TeamIndia fans 💙 Chepauk 🏟️ has come alive courtesy you 🤗 #INDvENG @Paytm pic.twitter.com/QVYISf40O1 — BCCI (@BCCI) February 13, 2021 × As per the commentators, fourteen to fifteen thousand fans were present in the stadium at the time of toss on Saturday. The spectators were allowed to the stadium as COVID graph in India is on the decline. ALSO SEE: IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Fans flock to stadium as Chennai gears up to welcome crowd Former Indian batsman VVS Laxman took to Twitter and said: "Glad Fans are back in the stadium for the 2nd #IndvEng test in Chennai. They are the biggest stakeholders and an integral part of our sport and I expect them to make a massive difference. Good toss to win for India and hope they make it count by scoring big in the 1st innings." Virat Kohli went on to win a crucial toss ahead of the Test match as Team India is looking to bounce back in the four-match series. England are currently 1-0 up after a mammoth 227-run win in the first Test. Former India opener Wasim Jaffer expressed his happiness on social media. He said: "Very happy to see fans back at the Chepauk. The fans are the heartbeat of our sport. Indian cricket wouldn't be as big as it is today if not for the constant support of passionate fans. #INDvsENG"

IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Indian fans return to Chepauk to cheer for Virat and co.

<p>The 162-run stand between the Indian vice-captains (of different formats) gave hosts a much-needed edge over England by the end of Day 1 of the second Test at the Chepauk stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ball-of-the-century-virat-kohli-left-stunned-by-moeen-ali-ripper-363338" hreflang="en">Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper</a></p>

<p>Opener Rohit Sharma's 161 runs powered India to a healthy total and his partnership with vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane took the hosts from 86/3 to 248/4. Rishabh Pant (33 runs) and debutant Axar Patel (5 runs) remained on the crease when India were on 300 before the bails were off.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian skipper Virat Kohli won an important toss and decided to bat first. However, the hosts suffered a major setback in the first over as Shubman Gill was out on a duck in the very first over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 86-run stand between Pujara and Sharma tried stabilising Indian innings. But Moeen Ali's ripper removed Pujara and skipper Kohli in one over putting immense pressure on hosts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohlis-reaction-after-rohit-sharmas-shot-against-stuart-broad-363343" hreflang="en">WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad</a></p>

<p>However, Rohit and Rahane attacked England's spinners to build a 162-run partnership put India on top. Leach got the better of Rohit and the opener was out after scoring 161 runs, whereas, Moeen Ali cleaned up Ajinkya Rahane, who was playing at 67.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pant added some finishing touch as India ended their day with 300 runs on-board.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moeen Ali and Jack Leach took two wickets each. Olly Stone and skipper Joe Root got one wicket apiece.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will look to build on this mammoth score and will hope the pitch deteriorates so that spinners could trouble the English batting line up.&nbsp;</p>


The 162-run stand between the Indian vice-captains (of different formats) gave hosts a much-needed edge over England by the end of Day 1 of the second Test at the Chepauk stadium.

The 162-run stand between the Indian vice-captains (of different formats) gave hosts a much-needed edge over England by the end of Day 1 of the second Test at the Chepauk stadium. ALSO READ: Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper Opener Rohit Sharma's 161 runs powered India to a healthy total and his partnership with vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane took the hosts from 86/3 to 248/4. Rishabh Pant (33 runs) and debutant Axar Patel (5 runs) remained on the crease when India were on 300 before the bails were off. Indian skipper Virat Kohli won an important toss and decided to bat first. However, the hosts suffered a major setback in the first over as Shubman Gill was out on a duck in the very first over. The 86-run stand between Pujara and Sharma tried stabilising Indian innings. But Moeen Ali's ripper removed Pujara and skipper Kohli in one over putting immense pressure on hosts. ALSO READ: WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad However, Rohit and Rahane attacked England's spinners to build a 162-run partnership put India on top. Leach got the better of Rohit and the opener was out after scoring 161 runs, whereas, Moeen Ali cleaned up Ajinkya Rahane, who was playing at 67. Pant added some finishing touch as India ended their day with 300 runs on-board. Moeen Ali and Jack Leach took two wickets each. Olly Stone and skipper Joe Root got one wicket apiece. India will look to build on this mammoth score and will hope the pitch deteriorates so that spinners could trouble the English batting line up.

IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Indian vice-captains keep hosts on top after Day 1

<p>Indian opener Rohit Sharma broke several records after scoring a gritty ton against England on the first Day of the second Test match.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ball-of-the-century-virat-kohli-left-stunned-by-moeen-ali-ripper-363338" hreflang="en">Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper</a></p>

<p>The Mumbaikar silenced his critics after smashing seventh Test hundered in just 130 balls after playing his natural aggressive game throughout the innings. His ton was crucial for Team India as they lost their three top batsmen cheaply (Kohli, Pujara Gill).</p>

<p>However, with this ton, Rohit became the first cricketer in the history of the game to slam centuries against four countries in all the formats of the game. Rohit scored centuries against Sri Lanka, West Indies, South Africa and England in all the formats (ODIs, T20Is and Tests) of the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The prolific opener overtook Mohammad Azharuddin to become the first Indian to score first seven centuries at home. The previous record was six centuries, held by former skipper Azharuddin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohlis-reaction-after-rohit-sharmas-shot-against-stuart-broad-363343" hreflang="en">WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad</a></p>

<p>This was Rohit Sharma's fourth ton in the World Test Championship, which is the highest by an Indian batsman. He is now behind Marnus Labuschagne, who has five.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite losing three big wickets, Rahane and Sharma's 100 run-stand powered India to 189 runs by the end of second session.&nbsp;</p>


Indian opener Rohit Sharma broke several records after scoring a gritty ton against England on the first Day of the second Test match. ALSO READ: Watch: Ball of the century?

Indian opener Rohit Sharma broke several records after scoring a gritty ton against England on the first Day of the second Test match. ALSO READ: Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper The Mumbaikar silenced his critics after smashing seventh Test hundered in just 130 balls after playing his natural aggressive game throughout the innings. His ton was crucial for Team India as they lost their three top batsmen cheaply (Kohli, Pujara Gill). However, with this ton, Rohit became the first cricketer in the history of the game to slam centuries against four countries in all the formats of the game. Rohit scored centuries against Sri Lanka, West Indies, South Africa and England in all the formats (ODIs, T20Is and Tests) of the game. The prolific opener overtook Mohammad Azharuddin to become the first Indian to score first seven centuries at home. The previous record was six centuries, held by former skipper Azharuddin. ALSO READ: WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad This was Rohit Sharma's fourth ton in the World Test Championship, which is the highest by an Indian batsman. He is now behind Marnus Labuschagne, who has five. Despite losing three big wickets, Rahane and Sharma's 100 run-stand powered India to 189 runs by the end of second session.

IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma shatters records after scoring brisk century

<p>After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara were under pressure to stabilise the Indian innings in the second Test against England. However, Rohit Sharma put India off-the-mark with a majestic drive through the extra cover boundary in the first ball of the second over, off Stuart Broad.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ball-of-the-century-virat-kohli-left-stunned-by-moeen-ali-ripper-363338" hreflang="en">Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper</a></p>

<p>Kohli, who was all padded up in the dressing room, was overjoyed by the shot and cheered for Rohit Sharma.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Yes boy ! : Virat Kohli<br />
applauding Rohit Sharma 's glorious cover drive.💙<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohitSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohitSharma</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/4v7CAYz4KI">pic.twitter.com/4v7CAYz4KI</a></p>
— 🄿 ♚ (@Rarefieed) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rarefieed/status/1360472078265192450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Despite Kohli's&nbsp;dismissal, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma's 100-run stand helped India to 189 runs at the loss of three wickets by the end of the second session.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/way-to-go-batting-legend-vivian-richards-bats-for-freedomfortibet-363321" hreflang="en">'Way to go': Batting legend Vivian Richards bats for #FreedomForTibet</a></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma scored his 7th Test century after 9 innings (15 Months) and is going strong with Rahane.</p>

<p>Virat Kohli opted to bat after winning the toss. Virat and Co. currently trail 0-1 in the four-match series, and a loss in the second Test will rule the side out of the qualification race for the final of the World Test Championship.</p>

<p>Team India have made three changes ahead of the match, they have rested Jasprit Bumrah and brought in Mohammed Siraj. Left-arm spinner Axar Patel, who is making his Test debut, and Chinaman Kuldeep Yadav replace left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem and off-spinner Washington Sundar, respectively.</p>


After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara were under pressure to stabilise the Indian innings in the second Test against England. However, Rohit Sharma put India off-the-mark with a majestic drive through the extra cover boundary in the first ball of the second over, off Stuart Broad.

After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara were under pressure to stabilise the Indian innings in the second Test against England. However, Rohit Sharma put India off-the-mark with a majestic drive through the extra cover boundary in the first ball of the second over, off Stuart Broad. ALSO READ: Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper Kohli, who was all padded up in the dressing room, was overjoyed by the shot and cheered for Rohit Sharma. Yes boy ! : Virat Kohli applauding Rohit Sharma 's glorious cover drive.💙 #RohitSharma #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/4v7CAYz4KI — 🄿 ♚ (@Rarefieed) February 13, 2021 × Despite Kohli's dismissal, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma's 100-run stand helped India to 189 runs at the loss of three wickets by the end of the second session. ALSO READ: 'Way to go': Batting legend Vivian Richards bats for #FreedomForTibet Rohit Sharma scored his 7th Test century after 9 innings (15 Months) and is going strong with Rahane. Virat Kohli opted to bat after winning the toss. Virat and Co. currently trail 0-1 in the four-match series, and a loss in the second Test will rule the side out of the qualification race for the final of the World Test Championship. Team India have made three changes ahead of the match, they have rested Jasprit Bumrah and brought in Mohammed Siraj. Left-arm spinner Axar Patel, who is making his Test debut, and Chinaman Kuldeep Yadav replace left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem and off-spinner Washington Sundar, respectively.

WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad

<p>After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara's 85-run partnership tried to stabilise the Indian innings. However, after Pujara's wicket, skipper Virat Kohli came on the crease to contribute but ended up following Cheteshwar after being clean bowled. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2nd-test-indian-fans-return-to-chepauk-to-cheer-for-virat-and-co-363314" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Indian fans return to Chepauk to cheer for Virat and co.</a></p>

<p>Moeen Ali tempted Kohli to play the cover drive, but the ball went on to crash on the top of the centre stump as India was lowered to 86 for 3. Kohli was in disbelief as he stood there checking with non-striker Rohit Sharma and the umpires if the ball had hit the stumps because the commentators on air questioned if the stumps had been disturbed by the wicket-keeper’s gloves.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Here’s a slo-mo of Virat Kohli’s wicket bowled by Moeen Ali <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/LASYLwiiR1">pic.twitter.com/LASYLwiiR1</a></p>
— AmirCXN (@cxn_amir) <a href="https://twitter.com/cxn_amir/status/1360476087340331009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ali's classic off-break delivery shocked the fans present at the MA Chidambaram too. This was Indian captain Virat Kohli's 11th duck in Test cricket.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO SEE:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/way-to-go-batting-legend-vivian-richards-bats-for-freedomfortibet-363321" hreflang="en">'Way to go': Batting legend Vivian Richards bats for #FreedomForTibet</a></p>

<p>However, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma's 70-run stand helped India go past 150 runs at the loss of three wickets. Rohit Sharma went on to score his 7th Test century after 9 innings (15 Months).</p>

<p>Virat Kohli opted to bat after winning the toss. Virat and Co. currently trail 0-1 in the four-match series, and a loss in the second Test will rule the side out of the qualification race for the final of the World Test Championship.</p>


After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara's 85-run partnership tried to stabilise the Indian innings. However, after Pujara's wicket, skipper Virat Kohli came on the crease to contribute but ended up following Cheteshwar after being clean bowled.

After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara's 85-run partnership tried to stabilise the Indian innings. However, after Pujara's wicket, skipper Virat Kohli came on the crease to contribute but ended up following Cheteshwar after being clean bowled. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Indian fans return to Chepauk to cheer for Virat and co. Moeen Ali tempted Kohli to play the cover drive, but the ball went on to crash on the top of the centre stump as India was lowered to 86 for 3. Kohli was in disbelief as he stood there checking with non-striker Rohit Sharma and the umpires if the ball had hit the stumps because the commentators on air questioned if the stumps had been disturbed by the wicket-keeper’s gloves. Here’s a slo-mo of Virat Kohli’s wicket bowled by Moeen Ali #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/LASYLwiiR1 — AmirCXN (@cxn_amir) February 13, 2021 × Ali's classic off-break delivery shocked the fans present at the MA Chidambaram too. This was Indian captain Virat Kohli's 11th duck in Test cricket. ALSO SEE: 'Way to go': Batting legend Vivian Richards bats for #FreedomForTibet However, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma's 70-run stand helped India go past 150 runs at the loss of three wickets. Rohit Sharma went on to score his 7th Test century after 9 innings (15 Months). Virat Kohli opted to bat after winning the toss. Virat and Co. currently trail 0-1 in the four-match series, and a loss in the second Test will rule the side out of the qualification race for the final of the World Test Championship.

Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper

<p>India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Friday said that the MA Chidambaram Stadium wicket for the second Test against England is a completely different from the one used for the first Test and will turn from Day One.<br />
<br />
"It (pitch) will be completely different. I am sure it will turn from day number one but again as I said before the first Test match, we will have to wait and see how it plays in the first session and then take it from there. We have to forget what happened in the first Test match and focus on this and play good cricket. We know these conditions very well. We have to put our best foot forward tomorrow and play as a team," said Rahane while speaking to the media on the eve of the second Test.<br />
<br />
While the first Test -- which England won by 227 runs -- was played on a red soil pitch, the second Test will be played on a pitch which is a mixture of black and red soil. The surface has a topping of black soil. It has also not been watered because the gap between the first two Tests was just three days and with black soil retaining more water, the pitch wouldn`t have dried.<br />
<br />
The Indian cricket board (BCCI) had packed off its curator after the first Test following complaints from Indian cricketers like Ishant Sharma that it was flat on the first two days, even though there was huge praise for the pitch that lasted five days.<br />
<br />
The pitch for the second Test has been prepared under the supervision of the Indian team management and it is no surprise that Rahane is saying that it would turn from Day One.<br />
<br />
"Wickets are different, we need to adjust. We have played plenty of cricket in Chennai. We are (playing) back-to-back Tests at one venue for the first time," said Rahane upon being asked about the challenge of playing back-to-back Test matches at the same venue.<br />
<br />
He, however, refused to confirm the playing XI or even the 12.<br />
<br />
"Everyone is in the mix. Good thing is that (left-arm spinner) Axar (Patel) is fit. I am not going to tell you who will play tomorrow but Axar is fit to play. All our spinners are very good. Given a chance they will do well," he added.<br />
<br />
Rahane also defended skipper Virat Kohli, saying that he remains the only captain of the team.<br />
<br />
"Sometimes it happens, there is no such energy. But it doesn`t mean that change in captaincy will happen. Sometimes body language can be down especially (the way it was panning out) in the first two days," said Rahane.<br />
<br />
He also spoke on Indians dropping too many catches and bowling no-balls in the first Test, saying that the team members are working hard on it.<br />
<br />
"There will be incidents where catches are dropped? we need to practice hard, especially close-in catching which is very important in India. Sometimes these things happen. No one drops intentionally. Guys are working hard. They all are disappointed what happened in the last game about the no-balls, they are working hard (to ensure the mistakes aren`t repeated)."</p>


India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Friday said that the MA Chidambaram Stadium wicket for the second Test against England is a completely different from the one used for the first Test and will turn from Day One.

India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Friday said that the MA Chidambaram Stadium wicket for the second Test against England is a completely different from the one used for the first Test and will turn from Day One. "It (pitch) will be completely different. I am sure it will turn from day number one but again as I said before the first Test match, we will have to wait and see how it plays in the first session and then take it from there. We have to forget what happened in the first Test match and focus on this and play good cricket. We know these conditions very well. We have to put our best foot forward tomorrow and play as a team," said Rahane while speaking to the media on the eve of the second Test. While the first Test -- which England won by 227 runs -- was played on a red soil pitch, the second Test will be played on a pitch which is a mixture of black and red soil. The surface has a topping of black soil. It has also not been watered because the gap between the first two Tests was just three days and with black soil retaining more water, the pitch wouldn`t have dried. The Indian cricket board (BCCI) had packed off its curator after the first Test following complaints from Indian cricketers like Ishant Sharma that it was flat on the first two days, even though there was huge praise for the pitch that lasted five days. The pitch for the second Test has been prepared under the supervision of the Indian team management and it is no surprise that Rahane is saying that it would turn from Day One. "Wickets are different, we need to adjust. We have played plenty of cricket in Chennai. We are (playing) back-to-back Tests at one venue for the first time," said Rahane upon being asked about the challenge of playing back-to-back Test matches at the same venue. He, however, refused to confirm the playing XI or even the 12. "Everyone is in the mix. Good thing is that (left-arm spinner) Axar (Patel) is fit. I am not going to tell you who will play tomorrow but Axar is fit to play. All our spinners are very good. Given a chance they will do well," he added. Rahane also defended skipper Virat Kohli, saying that he remains the only captain of the team. "Sometimes it happens, there is no such energy. But it doesn`t mean that change in captaincy will happen. Sometimes body language can be down especially (the way it was panning out) in the first two days," said Rahane. He also spoke on Indians dropping too many catches and bowling no-balls in the first Test, saying that the team members are working hard on it. "There will be incidents where catches are dropped? we need to practice hard, especially close-in catching which is very important in India. Sometimes these things happen. No one drops intentionally. Guys are working hard. They all are disappointed what happened in the last game about the no-balls, they are working hard (to ensure the mistakes aren`t repeated)."

I'm sure the pitch for 2nd Test will turn from Day One: Rahane

<p>England skipper Joe Root has confirmed that James Anderson will be rested in the upcoming Test match against India starting Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-auctions-292-players-including-164-indian-cricketers-shortlisted-checkout-the-complete-list-363086" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 auctions: 292 players, including 164 Indian cricketers shortlisted; check out the complete list</a></p>

<p>Surprisingly, Root also revealed that Dom Bess will be rested for the second match. All-rounder Moeen Ali might replace Bess in the second Chennai Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking to the press ahead of the 2nd Test, Root said it was a difficult decision to leave out Bess. "He has taken that on board and I am sure he will be disappointed, but that is what you expect from players who really care," said Root.</p>

<p>English paceman Jofra Archer has been ruled out of the second Test due to elbow injury, and Stuart Broad is most likely to take his spot. However, Chris Woakes has been added to the squad too.</p>

<p>"Stuart will play and we expect him to do exactly what he has done in the recent past in the England shirt," Root said.</p>

<p>"He's been rested - we talk about that rotation policy being crucial to our team's performance so they're fresh when they come in. But also making sure we're getting the best out of the likes of Stuart, Jimmy and the rest of our fast bowlers. He's been extremely professional about things, all he's tried to do is make sure he's in the best possible place to start extremely well.</p>

<p>"It's great to see him so excited about playing and you know he'll be extremely determined to put in a good performance and really make this game count - that's always a good place to have Stuart, if he's got any sort of point to prove or he's not been playing, he'll want to be the main man and have a real impact."</p>

<p>England are guaranteed to make another change in the line-up with wicket-keeper Ben Foakes replacing Jos Buttler in the playing XI. Buttler was relieved of his duties following the first Test against India, which England won by 227 runs. He will return for the five-match T20I series against the Men in Blue after being named in the squad on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>England Squad for 2nd Test</strong>: Joe Root, Rory Burns, Dom Sibley, Daniel Lawrence, Ben Stokes, Ollie Pope, Moeen Ali, Jack Leach, Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes, Ben Foakes and Olly Stone.</p>


England skipper Joe Root has confirmed that James Anderson will be rested in the upcoming Test match against India starting Saturday. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 auctions: 292 players, including 164 Indian cricketers shortlisted; check out the complete list Surprisingly, Root also revealed that Dom Bess will be rested for the second match.

England skipper Joe Root has confirmed that James Anderson will be rested in the upcoming Test match against India starting Saturday. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 auctions: 292 players, including 164 Indian cricketers shortlisted; check out the complete list Surprisingly, Root also revealed that Dom Bess will be rested for the second match. All-rounder Moeen Ali might replace Bess in the second Chennai Test. Talking to the press ahead of the 2nd Test, Root said it was a difficult decision to leave out Bess. "He has taken that on board and I am sure he will be disappointed, but that is what you expect from players who really care," said Root. English paceman Jofra Archer has been ruled out of the second Test due to elbow injury, and Stuart Broad is most likely to take his spot. However, Chris Woakes has been added to the squad too. "Stuart will play and we expect him to do exactly what he has done in the recent past in the England shirt," Root said. "He's been rested - we talk about that rotation policy being crucial to our team's performance so they're fresh when they come in. But also making sure we're getting the best out of the likes of Stuart, Jimmy and the rest of our fast bowlers. He's been extremely professional about things, all he's tried to do is make sure he's in the best possible place to start extremely well. "It's great to see him so excited about playing and you know he'll be extremely determined to put in a good performance and really make this game count - that's always a good place to have Stuart, if he's got any sort of point to prove or he's not been playing, he'll want to be the main man and have a real impact." England are guaranteed to make another change in the line-up with wicket-keeper Ben Foakes replacing Jos Buttler in the playing XI. Buttler was relieved of his duties following the first Test against India, which England won by 227 runs. He will return for the five-match T20I series against the Men in Blue after being named in the squad on Thursday. England Squad for 2nd Test: Joe Root, Rory Burns, Dom Sibley, Daniel Lawrence, Ben Stokes, Ollie Pope, Moeen Ali, Jack Leach, Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes, Ben Foakes and Olly Stone.

IND vs ENG: Bess and Anderson rested as Moeen Ali, Stuart Broad, Ben Foakes set to feature in second Test

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{efc1b424-728c-4696-a1d1-67a1707a451f}{169}" paraid="1992077102" xml:lang="EN-GB">The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday confirmed that all-rounder&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel is available for selection for the second Test against India, to be played from February 13.&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;has recovered completely after complaining of pain in his left knee, which ruled him out of the first Test.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{7f7bafdd-7858-4d28-8f65-d02c42ec6529}{88}" paraid="66185757" xml:lang="EN-GB">As a result, spinners Shahbaz Nadeem and Rahul Chahar have been drafted back to the group of standby players. Nadeem was central to widespread criticism following a lacklustre show with the ball in the opening Test against England, where he managed to pick just four wickets while conceding more than 200 runs&nbsp;in both the innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{75322cfa-c6db-45c8-91c6-0d2202ceef15}{187}" paraid="1970755758" xml:lang="EN-GB">The group of standby players include wicket-keeper KS Bharat, batsmen Abhimanyu Easwaran and Priyank Panchal, and spinners Shahbaz Nadeem and Rahul Chahar.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{75322cfa-c6db-45c8-91c6-0d2202ceef15}{187}" paraid="1970755758" xml:lang="EN-GB"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jofra-archer-ruled-out-of-second-test-vs-india-due-to-elbow-injury-362996" hreflang="en">Jofra Archer ruled out of second Test vs India due to elbow injury</a></strong></p>

<h2 lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{7b3a1ec1-46c7-448e-91d5-afcef05101c7}{196}" paraid="1408327764" xml:lang="EN-GB">BCCI statement on&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel:&nbsp;</h2>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{efc1b424-728c-4696-a1d1-67a1707a451f}{59}" paraid="182297110" xml:lang="EN-GB">"Axar&nbsp;Patel has recovered completely and is now available for selection for the 2nd Paytm Test in Chennai against England to be played from Saturday, 13th&nbsp;February. The all-rounder had complained of pain in his left knee and was ruled out of the first Test.&nbsp;The All-India Senior Selection Committee have now withdrawn Shahbaz Nadeem and Rahul Chahar from the main squad and added the duo back to the group of standby players."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{efc1b424-728c-4696-a1d1-67a1707a451f}{84}" paraid="2080134054" xml:lang="EN-GB"><strong>India Test squad:&nbsp;</strong>Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel, Washington Sundar, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{efc1b424-728c-4696-a1d1-67a1707a451f}{95}" paraid="879514341" xml:lang="EN-GB"><strong>Standby players:</strong>&nbsp;K S Bharat, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Nadeem, Rahul Chahar, Priyank Panchal&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{efc1b424-728c-4696-a1d1-67a1707a451f}{106}" paraid="1722781193" xml:lang="EN-GB"><strong>Net Bowlers:</strong>&nbsp;Ankit Rajpoot, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Warrier, Krishnappa Gowtham, Saurabh Kumar&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{efc1b424-728c-4696-a1d1-67a1707a451f}{52}" paraid="942774397" xml:lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday confirmed that all-rounder Axar Patel is available for selection for the second Test against India, to be played from February 13.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday confirmed that all-rounder Axar Patel is available for selection for the second Test against India, to be played from February 13. Axar has recovered completely after complaining of pain in his left knee, which ruled him out of the first Test. As a result, spinners Shahbaz Nadeem and Rahul Chahar have been drafted back to the group of standby players. Nadeem was central to widespread criticism following a lacklustre show with the ball in the opening Test against England, where he managed to pick just four wickets while conceding more than 200 runs in both the innings. The group of standby players include wicket-keeper KS Bharat, batsmen Abhimanyu Easwaran and Priyank Panchal, and spinners Shahbaz Nadeem and Rahul Chahar. ALSO READ: Jofra Archer ruled out of second Test vs India due to elbow injury BCCI statement on Axar Patel: "Axar Patel has recovered completely and is now available for selection for the 2nd Paytm Test in Chennai against England to be played from Saturday, 13th February. The all-rounder had complained of pain in his left knee and was ruled out of the first Test. The All-India Senior Selection Committee have now withdrawn Shahbaz Nadeem and Rahul Chahar from the main squad and added the duo back to the group of standby players." India Test squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur Standby players: K S Bharat, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Nadeem, Rahul Chahar, Priyank Panchal Net Bowlers: Ankit Rajpoot, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Warrier, Krishnappa Gowtham, Saurabh Kumar

Axar Patel fit for second Test vs England; Shahbaz Nadeem, Rahul Chahar drafted back to standby list

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{a4aea7d6-5db2-4ec6-954b-6fc56439a781}{60}" paraid="1477147897" xml:lang="EN-GB">England pacer Jofra Archer will miss the second Test against India, scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai&nbsp;from February 13. Archer will miss the much-awaited second Test owning to a discomfort in his right elbow.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{110757dd-d1bd-4531-8b3d-18fea30e5fb4}{182}" paraid="866720230" xml:lang="EN-GB">Archer has been treated with an injection in his right elbow with the England team hoping that the treatment will allow his condition to settle down quickly while allowing the speedster to return to action in time for the third Test in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{a4aea7d6-5db2-4ec6-954b-6fc56439a781}{69}" paraid="1096743473" xml:lang="EN-GB">While it is yet to be seen who replaces Archer in the playing XI, pacer Olly Stone could be in contention if England decide to rest veteran pacer James Anderson from the playing XI. Off-spin all-rounder Moeen Ali is also in contention to be in the playing XI. However, it is expected that Anderson and Stuart Broad will pair up for the second Test against India following Archer's injury.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{a4aea7d6-5db2-4ec6-954b-6fc56439a781}{69}" paraid="1096743473" xml:lang="EN-GB"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-mohammad-rizwan-joins-brendon-mccullum-in-unique-list-after-maiden-t20i-century-362993" hreflang="en">Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan joins Brendon McCullum in unique list after maiden T20I century</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{fbb6a2a6-0cf9-429d-9db7-59728412c549}{77}" paraid="501995115" xml:lang="EN-GB">The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in a statement said: "Jofra Archer will miss the second Test against India in Chennai starting on Saturday after having an injection in his right elbow.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{d443b9d3-7755-4ace-ba67-a4bd618d6bb3}{202}" paraid="1420401608" xml:lang="EN-GB">"The injection follows discomfort the fast bowler experienced during the 227-run win in the first Test at the same venue.&nbsp;The issue is not related to any previous injury and it is hoped the treatment will allow the condition to settle down quickly, allowing the player to return to action in time for the third Test in Ahmedabad."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{d443b9d3-7755-4ace-ba67-a4bd618d6bb3}{202}" paraid="1420401608" xml:lang="EN-GB"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/worst-surface-ive-seen-jofra-archer-on-day-5-pitch-in-first-test-against-india-362921" hreflang="en">'Worst surface I've seen': Jofra Archer on Day 5 pitch in first Test against India</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{90a0f2c8-6c19-4636-a3f9-94c99066431e}{166}" paraid="501332057" xml:lang="EN-GB">Meanwhile, England are guaranteed to make another change in the line-up with wicket-keeper Ben Foakes replacing Jos Buttler in the playing XI. Buttler was relieved of his duties following the first Test against India, which England won by 227 runs. He will return for the five-match T20I series against the Men in Blue after&nbsp;being named in the squad on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>


England pacer Jofra Archer will miss the second Test against India, scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from February 13. Archer will miss the much-awaited second Test owning to a discomfort in his right elbow.

England pacer Jofra Archer will miss the second Test against India, scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from February 13. Archer will miss the much-awaited second Test owning to a discomfort in his right elbow. Archer has been treated with an injection in his right elbow with the England team hoping that the treatment will allow his condition to settle down quickly while allowing the speedster to return to action in time for the third Test in Ahmedabad. While it is yet to be seen who replaces Archer in the playing XI, pacer Olly Stone could be in contention if England decide to rest veteran pacer James Anderson from the playing XI. Off-spin all-rounder Moeen Ali is also in contention to be in the playing XI. However, it is expected that Anderson and Stuart Broad will pair up for the second Test against India following Archer's injury. ALSO READ: Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan joins Brendon McCullum in unique list after maiden T20I century The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in a statement said: "Jofra Archer will miss the second Test against India in Chennai starting on Saturday after having an injection in his right elbow. "The injection follows discomfort the fast bowler experienced during the 227-run win in the first Test at the same venue. The issue is not related to any previous injury and it is hoped the treatment will allow the condition to settle down quickly, allowing the player to return to action in time for the third Test in Ahmedabad." ALSO READ: 'Worst surface I've seen': Jofra Archer on Day 5 pitch in first Test against India Meanwhile, England are guaranteed to make another change in the line-up with wicket-keeper Ben Foakes replacing Jos Buttler in the playing XI. Buttler was relieved of his duties following the first Test against India, which England won by 227 runs. He will return for the five-match T20I series against the Men in Blue after being named in the squad on Thursday.

Jofra Archer ruled out of second Test vs India due to elbow injury

IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Fans flock to stadium as Chennai gears up to welcome crowd

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{9ca470a9-a4e8-4241-8d85-9879d0a091f9}{77}" paraid="49999924" xml:lang="EN-GB">Veteran pacer James Anderson has said that he is "not assuming anything" as England look to rest their star bowler for the second Test against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, starting from February 13. Anderson could be rested for Stuart Broad, who missed the first Test due to England's&nbsp;rotation policy.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{3e29b742-25bd-45ce-888e-2f774643b3c4}{185}" paraid="1450683651" xml:lang="EN-GB">The 38-year-old took the match away from India with a splendid spell of reverse-swing where he took three wickets as England won the match by 227 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the four-Test series.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{881a6a40-aa43-4ec3-afa0-a2c7596b7e28}{99}" paraid="388279643" xml:lang="EN-GB">While Anderson looks fit as ever but the paceman could be left out of the second Test, taking out the chance to add to his sensational tally of 611 Test wickets – a record for a fast bowler.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{881a6a40-aa43-4ec3-afa0-a2c7596b7e28}{99}" paraid="388279643" xml:lang="EN-GB"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2nd-test-shahbaz-nadeem-set-to-be-dropped-as-axar-patel-returns-in-nets-362727" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG 2nd Test: Shahbaz Nadeem set to be dropped as Axar Patel returns in nets</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{32ad0d49-17e9-48ef-a504-f69fe13cb6e7}{167}" paraid="783607262" xml:lang="EN-GB">England have a jam-packed Test schedule in 2021, culminating in an Ashes series in Australia with the coaching staff carefully managing the workload of their players.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{abba602a-7d9b-47e3-ab3a-86c8f4d8547e}{251}" paraid="169012953" xml:lang="EN-GB">"When a batsman gets in rhythm and form, they want to keep batting and keep that rhythm going, and it's the same for a bowler," said Anderson.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{c2dfc6d4-deb6-4ae0-9fed-2d5e817fb893}{225}" paraid="223861997" xml:lang="EN-GB">"You want to keep that going if possible, but I'm very aware that we've got four Test matches in quick succession here and there will probably be a need to rest and rotate.&nbsp;So&nbsp;I'm not assuming anything."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{c2dfc6d4-deb6-4ae0-9fed-2d5e817fb893}{225}" paraid="223861997" xml:lang="EN-GB"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-end-up-breaking-all-records-nasser-hussain-praises-joe-root-after-chennai-test-heroics-362665" hreflang="en">Will end up breaking all records: Nasser Hussain praises Joe Root after Chennai Test heroics</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{c2dfc6d4-deb6-4ae0-9fed-2d5e817fb893}{234}" paraid="2086370527" xml:lang="EN-GB">England are set to make at least one change in their playing XI with wicket-keeper Jos Buttler set to be replaced by Ben Foakes.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{3843168f-2727-4a2e-81fc-3557339d32d9}{100}" paraid="141313678" xml:lang="EN-GB">England coach Chris Silverwood admitted on Wednesday: "It is hard (to leave Anderson out), he is a class act. But you'll have to wait and see.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{528a0e34-fda8-4e5a-b7c7-d29c29b249aa}{24}" paraid="893288543" xml:lang="EN-GB">"I'm not reluctant to change a winning team now if it's the best thing to do for the players, the team and the longevity of it."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{528a0e34-fda8-4e5a-b7c7-d29c29b249aa}{96}" paraid="4644915" xml:lang="EN-GB">The second Test between India and England will start from February 13.&nbsp;</p>


Veteran pacer James Anderson has said that he is "not assuming anything" as England look to rest their star bowler for the second Test against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, starting from February 13.

Veteran pacer James Anderson has said that he is "not assuming anything" as England look to rest their star bowler for the second Test against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, starting from February 13. Anderson could be rested for Stuart Broad, who missed the first Test due to England's rotation policy. The 38-year-old took the match away from India with a splendid spell of reverse-swing where he took three wickets as England won the match by 227 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the four-Test series. While Anderson looks fit as ever but the paceman could be left out of the second Test, taking out the chance to add to his sensational tally of 611 Test wickets – a record for a fast bowler. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG 2nd Test: Shahbaz Nadeem set to be dropped as Axar Patel returns in nets England have a jam-packed Test schedule in 2021, culminating in an Ashes series in Australia with the coaching staff carefully managing the workload of their players. "When a batsman gets in rhythm and form, they want to keep batting and keep that rhythm going, and it's the same for a bowler," said Anderson. "You want to keep that going if possible, but I'm very aware that we've got four Test matches in quick succession here and there will probably be a need to rest and rotate. So I'm not assuming anything." ALSO READ: Will end up breaking all records: Nasser Hussain praises Joe Root after Chennai Test heroics England are set to make at least one change in their playing XI with wicket-keeper Jos Buttler set to be replaced by Ben Foakes. England coach Chris Silverwood admitted on Wednesday: "It is hard (to leave Anderson out), he is a class act. But you'll have to wait and see. "I'm not reluctant to change a winning team now if it's the best thing to do for the players, the team and the longevity of it." The second Test between India and England will start from February 13.

'I'm very aware...': James Anderson accepts he could be rested for second Test vs India

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{bef7cd0c-5a24-48ab-a291-f099f85742d8}{44}" paraid="643420955" xml:lang="EN-GB">Left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem is set to be dropped from the Indian playing XI for the second Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, scheduled to start from February 13. Nadeem was heavily criticised for his performance in the opening Test against England, which India lost by a massive 227-run margin.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{2cd2cb08-9046-487e-8f14-005ba51592e1}{198}" paraid="858242684" xml:lang="EN-GB">Nadeem managed to pick just four wickets in the match while also failing to stop the run-flow from his end.&nbsp;While Nadeem's replacement in the playing XI will only be decided by Friday, according to PTI, all-rounder&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel is set to replace&nbsp;him.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{5f5a406e-a6f4-4f08-aeb5-47311d4cfe2b}{82}" paraid="586720882" xml:lang="EN-GB">Axar&nbsp;missed the first Test against England due to a knee injury but is now match-fit. He has already started batting at the nets.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{57b594e8-f4b9-4cca-9d78-2dc8ec616e67}{185}" paraid="354029338" xml:lang="EN-GB">"Axar&nbsp;had a minor knee niggle and has already started batting at the nets. He is expected to start bowling during the next couple of days."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{57b594e8-f4b9-4cca-9d78-2dc8ec616e67}{185}" paraid="354029338" xml:lang="EN-GB"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-like-walking-barefoot-on-hot-desert-shoaib-akhtars-hilariously-trolls-psl-2021-anthem-362658" hreflang="en">WATCH- 'Worst song ever': Shoaib Akhtar hilariously trolls PSL 2021 anthem</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{5f5a406e-a6f4-4f08-aeb5-47311d4cfe2b}{163}" paraid="378506213" xml:lang="EN-GB">"He was always first choice to play the opening Test but it will depend on skipper Virat Kohli, head coach Ravi Shastri and bowling coach Bharath Arun," a senior BCCI source told PTI on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{5f5a406e-a6f4-4f08-aeb5-47311d4cfe2b}{172}" paraid="2100207208" xml:lang="EN-GB">Indian skipper Virat Kohli expressed his disappointment on Nadeem's performance during the post-match presentation where he said that Nadeem and Washington Sundar failed to maintain the pressure created by the likes of Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Ishant Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin.&nbsp;Sundar, who impressed with the bat, is set to keep his place in the playing XI.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{4c1b9f91-8f40-4500-b1ac-13f32f34b651}{69}" paraid="1911715267" xml:lang="EN-GB">Meanwhile, the new&nbsp;Chepauk&nbsp;strip could offer turn from Day 1 itself with pressure mounting on rookie curator V Ramesh Kumar and BCCI head of pitches and grounds committee head Taposh Chatterjee after one of the flattest decks that was on offer during the first Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{2280a3bc-3fc5-467e-8edc-4a3966c42926}{213}" paraid="407915595" xml:lang="EN-GB">The second Test between India and England is set to commence from February 13.&nbsp;</p>


Left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem is set to be dropped from the Indian playing XI for the second Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, scheduled to start from February 13.

Left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem is set to be dropped from the Indian playing XI for the second Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, scheduled to start from February 13. Nadeem was heavily criticised for his performance in the opening Test against England, which India lost by a massive 227-run margin. Nadeem managed to pick just four wickets in the match while also failing to stop the run-flow from his end. While Nadeem's replacement in the playing XI will only be decided by Friday, according to PTI, all-rounder Axar Patel is set to replace him. Axar missed the first Test against England due to a knee injury but is now match-fit. He has already started batting at the nets. "Axar had a minor knee niggle and has already started batting at the nets. He is expected to start bowling during the next couple of days." ALSO READ: WATCH- 'Worst song ever': Shoaib Akhtar hilariously trolls PSL 2021 anthem "He was always first choice to play the opening Test but it will depend on skipper Virat Kohli, head coach Ravi Shastri and bowling coach Bharath Arun," a senior BCCI source told PTI on Wednesday. Indian skipper Virat Kohli expressed his disappointment on Nadeem's performance during the post-match presentation where he said that Nadeem and Washington Sundar failed to maintain the pressure created by the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin. Sundar, who impressed with the bat, is set to keep his place in the playing XI. ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: India skipper Virat Kohli slips to fifth spot as Joe Root enters top 3 Meanwhile, the new Chepauk strip could offer turn from Day 1 itself with pressure mounting on rookie curator V Ramesh Kumar and BCCI head of pitches and grounds committee head Taposh Chatterjee after one of the flattest decks that was on offer during the first Test. The second Test between India and England is set to commence from February 13.

IND vs ENG 2nd Test: Shahbaz Nadeem set to be dropped as Axar Patel returns in nets

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