Amid the fifth Test match between India and England in Dharamsala, Rohit Sharma’s face reflected a mix of frustration and determination following an erroneous decision by umpire Joel Wilson on Day 1.
The pivotal moment occurred during the seventh over of India’s innings when a delivery from James Anderson appeared to graze Rohit’s thigh pad on its way down the leg side. Despite the ball not making any contact with the bat, England opted to appeal for a catch. In a surprising turn of events, the umpire upheld the appeal, signaling Rohit out. However, the Indian opener wasted no time in challenging the decision, and his discontent was palpable from his expression alone.
Upon review, the replays unequivocally showed that Rohit was correct in his assessment, and the decision was promptly reversed, much to the relief of the Indian camp.
Despite the early setback, Rohit, alongside his opening partner Yashasvi Jaiswal, embarked on a formidable partnership, steering India to a commanding position at 135 for one by the close of play on Day 1. Rohit, unbeaten on 52 from 83 deliveries, and Jaiswal, who contributed a brisk 57 from 58 balls, amassed a century stand for the opening wicket, propelling India within striking distance of England’s first innings total of 218.
However, Jaiswal’s departure after reaching his half-century, succumbing to a stumping by Ben Foakes off the bowling of Shoaib Bashir, momentarily halted India’s momentum. Yet, Rohit found a reliable ally in Shubman Gill, who remained unbeaten on 26 at the end of the day’s play.
Earlier in the day, India’s spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Ravichandran Ashwin wreaked havoc on the English batting lineup, sharing nine wickets between them. Kuldeep’s fifer (5/72) and Ashwin’s four-wicket haul (4/51) dismantled England’s innings, with Ravindra Jadeja chipping in with a wicket as well.
Amidst England’s struggles, Zak Crawley stood out with a resilient knock of 79 off 108 balls, providing a solitary bright spot in an otherwise lackluster batting display.
As the match progresses, Rohit Sharma’s resilience and resolve, evident not only in his batting but also in his reaction to the umpiring error, underscore his importance as a leader in the Indian team’s quest for victory.