Credit: ICC
England openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett looked relentless against India’s bowling attack in the second innings of the first Test getting played at Headingley. Chasing 371 runs, both English openers adopted the ‘Bazball’ style to shatter India bowlers’ confidence. Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj were their favourite targets as they didn’t miss the opportunity to punish their loose bowling. In the penultimate over before the lunch break, Siraj was looking to close his spell quickly. As he took his run-up to bowl the delivery, Crawley backed away at the final moment.
Siraj looked displeased but Zak cited the reason to back away, pointing behind the pacer’s arm. However, the 31-year-old didn’t look convinced with Crawley’s move and was seen having a war of words with both openers while returning to the dugout for lunch. Later, KL Rahul was also seen joining the conversation.
Ben Duckett notches up sixth Test ton
Ben Duckett has done a remarkable job for England in the match. After smashing a half-century in the first innings, he looked sensational in the second innings as well. This time, he scored his sixth red-ball century and helped his side have a command over the game. He didn’t relent after completing his century.
The left-handed batter went ahead to amass runs in a quick manner. His innings concluded after scoring an impactful 149. As of writing, England needs less than 100 runs to win on the final session. India will have to clinch wickets to stop the hosts from chasing the huge score successfully. India’s mainstay bowlers Jasprit Bumrah, Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja have been wicketless so far. Team India supporters will want them to hold their nerves and turn the game in their side’s favour.
