Rajkot: Following India’s monumental 434-run triumph over England at Rajkot on Day 4 of the third Test, the team’s most significant victory in terms of runs, Captain Rohit Sharma emphasized the noteworthy aspect – the impressive contributions of the young players in crucial moments.

“Credit goes to the young talents who have exhibited resilience, proving their mettle at this level and expressing a genuine desire to be a part of it. Our emphasis on bench strength came to fruition in this series. Winning a match after struggling at 33 for 3 in the first innings is truly gratifying,” Rohit remarked, as India secured a 2-1 series lead with two Test matches remaining.

For India, the stellar performances by the young players serve as a promising indication of a bright future for the Test team.

Yashasvi Jaiswal, aged 22, clinched the distinction of being the third youngest cricketer to achieve two double centuries, with Vinod Kambli holding the record as the youngest and Don Bradman as the second youngest.

On his Test debut, 26-year-old Sarfaraz Khan capitalized with two half-centuries after showcasing consistent performance in first-class cricket. Meanwhile, 24-year-old Shubman Gill, who began the series under pressure, turned the tide with a century in the final Test and a notable 91 in the second innings.

In pursuit of a target of 557 runs, England’s second innings collapsed to a mere 122, reminiscent of a bygone era when English batsmen would crumble after their bowlers conceded runs to Indian batsmen.

Despite the resounding victory, Indian celebrations were relatively subdued, marked by handshakes and light pats on each other’s backs as the team headed toward the dressing room. As the final wicket fell, Ravindra Jadeja raised his arms in triumph, acknowledging his game-changing contributions—a century in the first innings and a five-for in the second, dismissing England in less than 40 overs.

The game witnessed dramatic moments, from India’s early struggle at 33 for 3 on the opening day to R Ashwin leaving the game midway due to a family emergency on Day 2 after reaching 500 Test wickets. Ashwin rejoined the team on Sunday morning, showcasing his character in prioritizing the team.

Jadeja, following his first-inning century, delivered a stellar performance with a five-for in the second innings, bowling out England for 122 and earning the man-of-the-match award.

The game prompts scrutiny of England’s aggressive Bazball approach, raising questions about potential overcooking and getting carried away. Two pivotal moments on the third day—the unconventional dismissal of Joe Root at 224 for 2 and Ben Stokes’ aggressive play at 299 for 5—will likely be under the spotlight.

Despite a challenging start at 33 for 3 on a flat pitch, India’s seniors, Rohit and Jadeja, rescued the team with a 204-run partnership. Sarfaraz’s aggressive 66-ball 62 further solidified India’s position. Yashasvi Jaiswal, inspired by his first double century, showcased remarkable batting skills in the second innings, contributing to India’s impregnable position.

Amid concerns about India’s lack of experience, the younger players, particularly Jaiswal and Sarfaraz, have emerged with positive intent. This is especially noteworthy following the disappointments of Shreyas Iyer, who was dropped, and Axar Patel’s struggles with the ball.

Rohit acknowledged the hard work and execution of plans that contributed to India’s success, emphasizing the need for four to five days of dedicated effort to secure a Test victory. While India celebrated an all-round team effort, England, despite their reluctance to admit publicly, faces a period of introspection.