Pitch invader, wearing Virat Kohli jersey, touches feet of Rohit Sharma during IND vs ENG match | Watch
PTC Web Desk: During the inaugural day of the Test match between India and England in Hyderabad on Thursday, a fervent fan from the crowd could not contain his excitement and made an impromptu entry onto the pitch to meet Indian captain Rohit Sharma. What made the incident even more intriguing was the fact that the enthusiastic fan was adorned in a Virat Kohli Test jersey. Before the commencement of India's innings, the fan approached Rohit Sharma, touching the skipper's feet in a gesture of reverence.
Security personnel promptly intervened, escorting the fan off the field. However, the crowd present at the venue erupted in cheers, seemingly enjoying the unexpected interaction. Despite the brief interruption, Rohit Sharma exhibited composure and remained focused as he prepared to step up to bat.
Notably, India had earlier bowled out England for 246 runs in the first innings after the visitors won the toss and elected to bat. Rohit Sharma actively participated in the on-field action, showcasing his fielding skills by taking a sharp catch in the slips to contribute to Ravindra Jadeja's successful wicket-taking moment.
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The spinners, including R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, played pivotal roles in dismantling the English batting lineup. Ben Duckett was the first to fall victim to Ashwin's skillful bowling. Rohit Sharma, in the slips, took a remarkable catch to assist Jadeja in dismissing Ollie Pope, further swinging the momentum in India's favor.
As the day progressed, the Indian bowlers, led by Bumrah, kept up the pressure, securing wickets at regular intervals. England captain Ben Stokes showcased resilience with a commendable knock of 70 runs, but wickets continued to tumble at the other end. Eventually, Bumrah dismissed Stokes, bringing an end to the English innings. Both Ashwin and Jadeja secured three wickets each.
India, in their response, got off to a robust start with Rohit Sharma and Yashavi Jaiswal forging a rapid 50-run partnership, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the Test match.