In the ongoing first Test between India and England, Team India managed to limit England's innings to 465, gaining a narrow 6-run lead. Yet, India’s vulnerabilities have surfaced, especially in fielding. Questions are being raised about the captaincy as well.
Before the tea break on the third day, Indian fielders dropped six catches, marking the first instance since 2019 where more than five opportunities were squandered in a Test innings. Yashasvi Jaiswal attracted criticism, despite earning praise for a brilliant century, by dropping three slip catches off Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling.
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A 109-run Penalty
Yashasvi first missed a catch on the second day, letting Ben Duckett, who was on 15, go on to score 62. Then, he dropped Ollie Pope at 60, allowing him to reach 106, and on the third day failed to catch Harry Brook at 83, who eventually made 99. Together, these players added 109 runs, narrowing India’s slender lead.
Captaincy Under Question
Gill’s captaincy is also under the spotlight due to his choices regarding bowlers and field settings. Despite Jaiswal’s repeated slip errors, he wasn't repositioned. Delays were noted in bringing back Bumrah after England’s eight wickets had fallen, although he ultimately led the team to dismiss England. Additionally, Shardul Thakur bowled just 6 overs, although more could have been allocated to him.
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Manjrekar Critiques Jaiswal
Former Indian batsman Sanjay Manjrekar suggested replacing Jaiswal in slips with Sai Sudharsan for future Tests, advocating for maintaining two extra slip fielders at all times.
Manjrekar remarked on Jaiswal's excellent previous performances in domestic series against Australia and New Zealand at gully, yet noted the three drops in this Test.
India indeed owned the third day of the Leeds Test against England. India's bowlers halted England's first innings at 465, obtaining a 6-run lead, and subsequently secured 90 runs for 2 wickets, holding a current lead of 96 runs. KL Rahul and Shubman Gill remain unbeaten, whereas Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan scored 4 and 30, respectively, before being dismissed.
