In Durham, Chester-le-street, India is playing a three-day warm-up fixture against a County Select XI. The opening day's standout performers were KL Rahul, who smashed a century, and Ravindra Jadeja, who contributed a vital half-century. Rohit Sharma stepped up as captain in place of the injured Virat Kohli, leading the side to a first-day total of 306/9.
A three-day warm-up match is being played between India and County Select XI in Chester-le-street in Durham. Wicketkeeper KL Rahul’s century and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja’s half-century were the treats to watch on the first day’s play. In the absence of injured Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma captained the Indian Team. India scored a good 306/9 at stumps on day 1.
After calling the coin and deciding to bat first, India struggled early on as wickets fell in rapid succession. The top order failed to settle, with openers Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal falling for 9 and 28 respectively before the score hit 50. The collapse continued when the dependable Cheteshwar Pujara was stumped off Jack Carson for 21, and Hanuma Vihari followed shortly after, gifting a catch to mid-off for 24.
The tide turned when KL Rahul arrived at the crease at number five. He played with confidence and flair, scoring runs quickly and hitting the boundary with ease to reach a well-earned 101, including 11 fours and a six. This performance served as a loud reminder of his capabilities to the team management. He found a great partner in Ravindra Jadeja, who adapted well to the pitch to score 75. Together, they stabilized the innings with a commanding 127-run stand for the fifth wicket.
Due to a combination of injuries and COVID-19 restrictions, the England Cricket Board struggled to field a full side, leading to Avesh Khan and Washington Sundar featuring for the County Select XI. However, Avesh Khan was forced to leave the game prematurely after suffering a thumb injury.