India humiliated England in the third Test of the five-match series in Rajkot, thrashing them by a staggering 434 runs. This triumph marked India’s most significant victory margin in their 577-Test history and their first win by over 400 runs. Surpassing their previous 372-run triumph against New Zealand in 2021, this win propelled India to a 2-1 lead in the series and propelled them ahead of Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) points table, securing the second position. Meanwhile, New Zealand retained the top spot with a point percentage of 75% after four Tests, while India followed closely behind with 59.52%, leaving Australia trailing at 55%.
In the match itself, Yashasvi Jaiswal’s unbeaten double century and Ravindra Jadeja’s five-wicket haul were instrumental in India’s domination over England. England, tasked with chasing 557 for victory, collapsed spectacularly, losing eight wickets in the final session and eventually being dismissed for a mere 122 on day four. Jadeja claimed the final wicket, that of Mark Wood, sealing India’s monumental win. England’s top-order crumbled, with openers and key batsmen like Ben Duckett, Jonny Bairstow, and Joe Root failing to make an impact. Even skipper Ben Stokes, in his 100th Test, succumbed to the Indian bowling attack.
Jaiswal’s left-handed brilliance shone as he scored an impressive 214 runs off 236 balls, tormenting the English bowlers with his aggressive stroke play. His innings included a record-equalling 12 sixes, with three consecutive hits off the experienced James Anderson, a feat unprecedented against the seasoned campaigner. Despite retiring hurt on 104 due to back pain, Jaiswal returned to the crease to achieve his second consecutive double century, much to the delight of the home crowd.
The series now stands at 2-1 in favor of India, with the fourth Test scheduled to commence in Ranchi on Friday. After losing the series opener, India has bounced back strongly, securing two consecutive victories and asserting their dominance over the English side.
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