IND v ENG 3rd Test: On Day 3 of the third Test, the Indian Cricket team took the field by wearing black armbands. The gesture was a mark of respect to late Dattajirao, a former India Captain & India’s one of the oldest Test Cricketers who passed away recently at the age of 95.
Dattajirao Gaiekwad who was also known as Datta Gaekwad left a mark on Indian Cricket during his illustrious career span. Making his mark with 11 Test fixtures, Gaekwad’s legacy was beyond his statistical achievements. He was regarded for his batting style & occasional leg spin bowling which helped him to earn recognition from cricket enthusiasts & fans. His exceptional batting & unique bowling style are what guided India to stunning victories in crucial Test matches.
IND vs ENG 3rd Test: A Look at Gaekwad’s Career Span
Gaekwad’s cricketing journey was full of remarkable milestones. He led the Indian team during their England tour in 1959 where he proved his prowess as a sheer leader. His contributions extended to the domestic format where he led Baroda to their Ranji Trophy triumph in 1957-58 etching his name in the history of Cricket.
BCCI’s decision to pay tribute to Cricket Legend
As the Cricket fraternity is saddened by the loss of one of its gems, the BCCI decided to pay tribute to Gaekwad in a special way. The board on Saturday announced that the Indian team will honor Gaekwad by wearing black armbands during the third Test against England. This gesture depicts the impact Gaekwad had on Indian Cricket & the respect players had for him in their hearts.
Meanwhile, R Ashwin India’s profound all-rounder had to leave the Rajkot Test in between due to a family emergency. But before leaving the Test match, R Ashwin added a glorious accolade to his kitty by completing 500 Test wickets on Day 2 of the third Test. By achieving the feat he became the second Indian to reach the 500 Test wickets mark.
What’s happening in the IND vs ENG 3rd Test?
After ending the first innings at a mammoth score of 445 runs, India managed to wreak havoc with the ball restricting England to 319 runs total. Mohammed Siraj (4-84), Kuldeep (2-77) & Jadeja (2-51) held their nerves & cleaned India’s top & lower order. Except Duckett (153 off 151 balls) & Stokes (41 off 89) none of the batters could stand India’s bowling attack. As a result, England ended their first innings at 319 runs handing India a 216 runs lead. Currently, India has begun the second innings with Rohit Sharma 13) & Jaiswal (5) on the crease.
Whether India will be able to extend their lead to an unassailable target or England bowlers will weave magic with the ball & restrict them from scoring. All the questions will be answered as the day progresses.
Also read, R Ashwin withdraws from Rajkot Test due to family emergency