India vs England 3rd Test: Key Players That Could Steal the Show

After a 10-day hiatus, cricket fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the third Test between India and England, set to commence in Rajkot on Thursday, February 15. The series has been a rollercoaster ride, with England taking the lead in Hyderabad, only for India to mount a spectacular comeback in Visakhapatnam, leveling the series with a commanding 106-run victory. As the teams gear up for the crucial third Test, the focus is on key player matchups that could shape the outcome of this enthralling contest.

The Duel of Joe Root & Jasprit Bumrah

The England captain, Joe Root, has been facing substantial pressure after accumulating only 52 runs in four innings during this series. Critics, including former players like Michael Vaughan, have advised Root to stick to what has been working for him, especially against spin. However, Root’s challenge is far from over, considering the looming threat of Indian pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah.

In Tests, Bumrah has dismissed Root an astonishing eight times, including two dismissals in this series. With 15 wickets from two Tests, Bumrah is in top form and will be eager to continue his dominance. Root’s battle against Bumrah will be a crucial subplot, and India will be banking on their star pacer to maintain the rhythm and keep Root under control.

The Duel of Zak Crawley & Ravichandran Ashwin

The English opener Zak Crawley stood out in the second Test with a total of 149 runs, showcasing a commendable blend of caution and aggression. Crawley’s ability to anchor the innings and provide a solid foundation for England makes him a key wicket for the Indian team. Enter Ravichandran Ashwin, the seasoned off-spinner who seems to hold the key to dismissing Crawley early.

While Crawley has scored 68 runs off Ashwin in Tests, the off-spinner has dismissed him thrice already. With just one wicket away from the monumental milestone of 500 Test wickets, Ashwin will be eager to use his expertise against Crawley and contribute significantly to India’s chances. The Crawley-Ashwin duel is poised to be a critical subplot in the upcoming Test.

The Duel of Yashasvi Jaiswal & James Anderson

One of the standout performers in the previous Test, Yashasvi Jaiswal, played a pivotal role in India’s resurgence with a sensational double century (209). However, his nemesis in that match was the experienced English pacer, James Anderson. The battle between the young Indian batsman and the crafty veteran promises to be a captivating spectacle in Rajkot.

In the first innings of the previous Test, Jaiswal’s attacking approach led to his downfall as he charged down the track only to be caught at deep extra cover. Anderson’s ability to exploit such moments of aggression could be crucial for England’s chances. In the second innings, Anderson’s new-ball skills troubled Jaiswal, resulting in the southpaw edging one to the slip cordon. If England hopes to keep Jaiswal in check, they will rely on Anderson’s experience and early breakthroughs.

As the cricketing world awaits the resumption of the India vs England series in Rajkot, these three player face-offs hold the key to determining the outcome of the third Test. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s clash with James Anderson, Zak Crawley’s battle against Ravichandran Ashwin, and Joe Root’s tussle with Jasprit Bumrah promise to be intense and decisive encounters.

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