A Tale of Redemption and Domination: England’s Triumph in Chennai, 2021

 

The Test series of 1993 remains etched in memory for Indian cricket fans—a period of redemption for skipper Mohammad Azharuddin following a dismal tour of South Africa. England, led by the formidable Graham Gooch, arrived in India brimming with confidence, seeking to replicate their triumphant campaign of 1984-85. But what unfolded was a resounding humiliation as Azharuddin and his spinners orchestrated a clean sweep in Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai, reshaping the narrative of Indian cricket. 

Fast forward to 2021, echoes of that history resonated as England once again faced India in Chennai, a venue where they had tasted contrasting fortunes over decades. This time, it was Joe Root’s England, reinvigorated by a stellar performance in Sri Lanka, looking to challenge India on their home turf. Yet, history has often shown that conquering India at home demands a combination of brilliance, strategy, and a touch of audacity. 

A Root Masterclass: Defining the Art of Batting 

Joe Root’s masterful double century was not just a display of technical excellence but also a testament to his adaptability and mental fortitude. Winning the toss proved pivotal as Root opted to bat on a surface destined to deteriorate. England’s openers made a steady start, but two quick strikes left them wobbling at 63 for 2. Enter Root, the man of the hour. 

Root’s approach was a masterclass in resilience. Against Jasprit Bumrah and Ishant Sharma, he showcased impeccable patience, scoring just 11 runs off his first 50 balls. It was a tactical decision, aimed at wearing down India’s formidable bowling attack. His footwork against spin was exemplary, as he cleverly avoided the danger zone of 2-3 meters where Ravichandran Ashwin thrives. Root’s sweeping game, a blend of traditional, hard, and reverse sweeps, dismantled the spinners' rhythm and drew comparisons to the likes of Graham Gooch and Mike Gatting from the 1987 World Cup. 

What stood out was his calculated acceleration. After a conservative start, Root shifted gears seamlessly, scoring 111 off his next 137 balls. His ability to attack with control was evident, with only 12% false shots despite attacking 34% of deliveries in the final session. The innings culminated in a majestic slog-sweep for six, a fitting exclamation point to a knock that laid the foundation for England’s dominance. 

A Tale of Two Teams 

England’s first-innings total of 578, built around Root’s double ton, was a commanding statement. In contrast, India’s response was lackluster. Jofra Archer’s fiery new-ball spell rattled the openers, and Dom Bess capitalized on the pressure, dismissing key players like Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane. Rishabh Pant’s counterattacking 91 and Cheteshwar Pujara’s stoic resistance offered hope, but England’s spinners tightened the noose, leaving India 241 runs behind. 

The Ashwin Show and Anderson’s Magic 

Faced with a mammoth deficit, India turned to their talisman, Ravichandran Ashwin. On a wearing pitch, Ashwin delivered a masterclass in spin bowling, claiming 6 for 61 in England’s second innings. His nine-wicket haul in the match was a reminder of his enduring prowess, but the target of 420 was always a daunting ask. 

Enter James Anderson, the ageless wizard. On a dust bowl seemingly suited for spinners, Anderson produced a spell for the ages. His 7-over burst on the final morning, featuring reverse swing and pinpoint accuracy, left India shell-shocked. The dismissal of Shubman Gill—a reverse-swinging delivery that sent the off-stump cartwheeling—was a masterpiece of craft and execution. Ajinkya Rahane and Rishabh Pant fell to Anderson’s guile, sealing India’s fate. 

England’s Resilience and Redemption 

England’s victory in Chennai was more than just a win; it was a statement of intent. Joe Root’s sublime batting, Dom Bess’s disciplined spin, and James Anderson’s timeless brilliance combined to create a memorable performance. For Root, it was a continuation of his golden run, underscored by a hunger for runs and an unyielding belief in his abilities. 

This match echoed the spirit of 1993 in reverse—a foreign captain leading his side to a commanding victory on Indian soil. While the ghosts of Kolkata and Chennai linger for England, this triumph adds a new chapter to their rich cricketing history. For the Indian team, it served as a sobering reminder of the relentless demands of Test cricket, where even the mightiest can falter. 

As the series unfolded, one thing became clear: this was not just a Test match; it was a celebration of cricket’s enduring charm, where moments of brilliance and resilience intertwine to produce a narrative that transcends the game itself.

 Thank You

Faisal Caesar