England opener Ben Duckett praised Yashasvi Jaiswal for his enterprising century on day three of the Rajkot Test, but suggested that England should get some credit for their opponents’ aggressive style in Test cricket.
Jaiswal’s 104* headlined India’s batting on the third day of the Test, putting India in a commanding position at stumps. The 22-year-old opener had to retire hurt, but India’s lead of 322 has ensured that the hosts will start the fourth day as favourites to force a win.
Duckett was England’s star in the first innings, scoring 153 when none of his teammates managed more than 41. However, a lower-order collapse negated some of the early advantage: they slipped from 299-5 to 319 all out.
"The risk-reward when it's Bumrah, who today of all days is disproportionately important given that Ashwin's not there, just wasn't there."
🗣️ @Yas_Wisden on Joe Root's failed reverse scoop on day three in Rajkot.
What did you make of the manner of his dismissal?#INDvENG pic.twitter.com/wq10TK6uxe
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) February 17, 2024
India started with a 126-run lead: Jaiswal initially started slow, but accelerated post tea. Before the final session started, he was on 19 off 54 – he ended up reaching three figures off 122 balls.
Speaking to reporters at the end of the game, Duckett praised India for emphatically making their way back into the game, praising Jaiswal’s batting but mentioning England’s contribution to his approach.
“When you see players from the opposition playing like that, it almost feels like we should take some credit that they’re playing differently than how other people play Test cricket,” Duckett said. “We saw it a bit in the summer and it’s quite exciting to see other players and other teams are also playing that aggressive style of cricket.
Duckett backed Jaiswal to have a great future in the game.
“He looks like a superstar in the making, unfortunately he’s in some very good form at the moment. He’s due a couple of low ones.”
