In the second session of Day 2, Moeen Ali lost his wicket recklessly as he attempted a shot that was not at all needed. In other words, Moeen did a “Rishab Pant”.
Moeen got a start, looked attractive, and found the softest possible way to get himself dismissed. It was nicely flighted and wide of off delivery, Moeen was looking for the big swipe over the on-side – went too hard on the shot, lost his poise and his balance in doing so, skewed off the thick top-edge and it’s a straightforward catch to Rohit, at the cover.
It was a much-needed wicket for India, as the shoulders had started to droop. And yes, Jadeja got rid of a left-handed batsman.
Second Session Summary
Similar to the first session, India took two wickets and England managed a fair share of runs, 88 to be precise. It also took them past India’s 191 and the lead was already worth 36, with three wickets still in hand. It was Ollie Pope’s session, he stood like a rock and blunted whatever India threw at him, was involved in two handy partnerships – 89 with Bairstow for the 6th wicket and a further 71 for the 7th with Moeen. India kept plugging away, but it was becoming evident that the conditions were perfect for batting. Little swing, little seam, and value for shots – Siraj got rid of Bairstow, and Jadeja was gifted with the wicket of Moeen.
Chris Woakes Surprises
For those who were thinking that the tail is exposed, they all forgot that Chris Woakes possesses a good ability at batting and he also has an unbeaten daddy hundred of 137* against India. In the first over itself after tea, Woakes smashed the world-class bowler Bumrah for three fours. Yes, three fours in a single over in Test cricket on the bowling of Jasprit Bumrah.
Ollie Pope gets bowled over
That’s the big wicket India was looking for and Ollie Pope hit the ground with his bat in frustration. Was playing so well till then, but he tried to chase a widish one and played it onto his stumps. Indian fans found their voice back as Shardul broke the stand. Just the wicket India was in search of. Good knock by Pope, nevertheless. Pope came in when England was struggling at 62/5 and walked back after playing a crucial knock of 81, giving England a considerable lead and a lot to cheer about.
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