Rohit Sharma L and Ajinkya Rahane Photo: Twitter/@BCCI
Recovering from 3 for 86, India reached 189/3 at Tea on Day 1, courtesy a superb unbeaten hundred from opener Rohit Sharma (132*) in the second Test against England at Chennai. The hosts added 83 runs in the second session without the loss of any wicket as Ajinkya Rahane also remained not out on 36. England spinners were used extensively but couldn't break through the solid partnership.
Earlier, the hosts were handed a huge blow as opening batsman Shubman Gill was dismissed for a duck after Virat Kohli opted to bat first. However, dependable Cheteshwar Pujara and Rohit started India's recovery with the Hitman playing the role of the aggressor as the duo added 85 runs for the second wicket. But the visitors struck twice in quick succession before Lunch as spinners Jack Leach and Moeen Ali sent back Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli in quick succession, the latter of whom became the victim of a spin bowler for a duck for the first time in his international career.
However, Rohit along with new man Ajinkya Rahane not only saw the team through to lunch but has ensured no further damage is done in the second session. The Hitman was cautious against the spinners but did not spare when the ball was in his arc, scoring a total of 16 fours and 2 sixes.
Both teams have quite a few changes to their respective XI. While India have handed a Test debut to Axar Patel, Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav have also been given a chance. Meanwhile, Ben Foakes, Stuart Broad, Olly Stone and Moeen Ali have found a place in the England XI.
The hosts are 0-1 down in the four-match Test series and look to come back to winning ways as they aim a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final later in the year. New Zealand have already qualified for the final while England and Australia are also in with a chance to qualify for the marquee event scheduled to played at the Lords.