The 4th Test between India and England got off to a fascinating start at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi on Friday, February 23, 2024, with England ending Day 1 at 302/7.
Despite losing half their side for under 120 runs, Joe Root’s magnificent century (106*) and a crucial partnership with Ben Foakes (47) ensured England recovered to post a respectable first innings total.
Starting Day 2, England were all out for 353 runs. India lost their skipper, Rohit Sharma, early for just two runs.
Early jitters for England:
When debutant Akash Deep cheaply dismissed Zak Crawley and Haseeb Hameed, England, who had chosen to bat first, was startled. Mohammed Siraj and the spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with wickets as well, reducing England to 112/5.
Root to the rescue:
Just when India seemed to be in control, Root stepped up with a masterful innings. The England captain dug in deep, playing with patience and precision, and found an able ally in Foakes. The duo stitched together a 121-run partnership for the sixth wicket, rebuilding the innings and frustrating the Indian bowlers.
England’s fightback:
After Foakes’ dismissal, Ollie Robinson provided valuable support to Root, adding 31 runs for the eighth wicket. England still had work to do at stumps, but Root’s knock gave them a fighting chance in the match.
England tour of India, 2024: TV Telecast and Live Stream Details
India:
- TV: Sports18 Network (Sports18, Colors Cineplex)
- Live Stream: JioCinema (free)
United Kingdom and Ireland:
- TV: TNT Sports
- Live Stream: discovery+, BT, EE, Sky, Virgin Media
United States and Canada:
- TV: Willow TV (Sling TV)
- Live Stream: Willow TV app (Sling TV subscription)
Australia:
- TV: Kayo Sports
- Live Stream: Kayo Sports app
New Zealand:
- TV: Sky Sport
- Live Stream: Sky Sport Now app
Middle East:
- TV: Switch TV- Etisalat
Looking ahead to Day 2:
Day two promises to be another enthralling day of Test cricket. India will look to dismiss the remaining England batsmen quickly and build a sizeable first-inning lead.
On the other hand, England will aim to add quick runs, staying at the crease as long as possible, and put pressure back on the Indian bowlers.
