India’s Ravichandran Ashwin put an end to England opener Ben Duckett’s impressive innings with a superb delivery on Day 1 of the first Test in Hyderabad on Thursday, January 25. Duckett, anticipating a turn due to the bowling of both Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, attempted to defend a ball from around the wicket off the front foot. However, he left a gap between the bat and pad while trying to cover for the anticipated turn.
However, Ravichandran Ashwin’s delivery continued with the angle, and the on-field umpire swiftly declared it out. Despite Ben Duckett opting for a review, the replays affirmed that the umpire’s decision would be upheld.
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The left-handed batsman was naturally disappointed, having made an excellent beginning with 35 runs off 39 deliveries. This marks the fourth occasion in Tests that Ashwin has dismissed Duckett.
The dismissal of Ben Duckett triggers a small collapse for the England team
Both Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley displayed great comfort against the Indian bowling, contributing 55 runs for the opening wicket. Duckett, especially, showcased aggression against Jadeja, sweeping him for a couple of boundaries.
However, just when it seemed like India might be trailing in the session, Ravichandran Ashwin made a crucial breakthrough by dismissing Duckett. Vice-captain Ollie Pope appeared uneasy right from the start, and his nerves eventually led to his downfall.
A splendid low catch by Rohit Sharma at slip off Jadeja sent Pope back with just 1 run to his name. Although Joe Root narrowly escaped an LBW decision, India secured another wicket with Zak Crawley’s dismissal. Crawley attempted to advance down the track and strike Ashwin past mid-on but had to depart as Mohammed Siraj executed an excellent catch.
England is in urgent need of a substantial partnership between Root and Jonny Bairstow to prevent the Indian spinners from making significant inroads into the visitors’ batting lineup.
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