A tense moment on the pitch saw Indian batter Yashasvi Jaiswal offer a timely piece of advice to teammate Sai Sudharsan after a risky run nearly led to a run-out during the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford.
A Close Call at Old Trafford
The incident unfolded in the 37th over of India’s innings. Sai Sudharsan played a shot off Brydon Carse and immediately took off for a run.
However, his partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal, was still deep inside the non-striker’s end. While the ball managed to evade the mid-on fielder, a direct hit could have resulted in a crucial run-out for India.
Post the near-miss, Jaiswal was quick to address the situation. He had a brief but firm conversation with Sudharsan, reminding him to be more aware of the field placements.
“Sai, ball jaane toh de yaar,” Jaiswal was heard telling his younger teammate, which translates to “Sai, let the ball go first, mate.” This highlights the importance of assessing the situation before committing to a run.
England Strikes After Lunch
Despite a wicketless morning session, England found their rhythm after the lunch break. They successfully broke India’s well-set opening partnership, putting pressure back on the visitors.
Chris Woakes was the first to strike, rewarded for his consistent off-stump line. He dismissed KL Rahul, who was batting confidently on 46, caught at third slip as the ball seamed away from him.
Left-arm spinner Liam Dawson, making his Test comeback after eight years, quickly followed up. He accounted for Jaiswal, who was looking good on 58, taking a thick outside edge to first slip after the ball held its line instead of turning as expected.
India’s captain, Shubman Gill, also fell cheaply, trapped leg before wicket by Ben Stokes after misjudging an incoming delivery and offering no shot. These quick wickets left India at 149 for three at tea.
Sai Sudharsan’s Cautious Start
Sai Sudharsan, stepping in for Karun Nair, approached his innings with caution. He focused on scoring primarily from deliveries that were pitched on the middle and leg stumps.
The young batter opened his account with a flick off Jofra Archer for his first boundary, later following up with a cover drive off Dawson.
England’s bowlers seemed to have a clear plan against Sudharsan, attempting to exploit his previous soft dismissal at Leeds by dragging balls down the leg side. However, a significant moment came when Ben Stokes almost had Sudharsan caught in a similar fashion.
Jamie Smith, the wicketkeeper, unfortunately spilled a regulation catch down the leg side when Sudharsan was on 20, offering him a crucial reprieve and allowing him to continue his innings.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal demonstrated leadership by advising Sai Sudharsan on cautious running between wickets.
- Sai Sudharsan experienced a challenging but educational innings, including a dropped catch.
- England bowlers, particularly Chris Woakes and Liam Dawson, made crucial breakthroughs after lunch.
The match continues to unfold with both teams vying for control, highlighting the fine margins in Test cricket, from quick singles to crucial wickets.
