Lord's Test on a Knife-Edge as India Matches England's Score
The third Test at Lord's has transformed into a dramatic second-innings shootout after India were bowled out for 387, precisely matching England's first-innings total. A day defined by brilliant individual performances, a pivotal error in judgment, and hostile fast bowling has left the match perfectly balanced, with neither side holding an advantage.
India’s innings was anchored by a masterful century from KL Rahul. He batted with immense calm and control, setting a new record with India's eighth century of the tour. His innings provided the stability his team needed. However, the complexion of the day shifted dramatically just before lunch. With Rahul on 98, a desperate attempt by Rishabh Pant to secure a single for his partner resulted in a sensational run-out by an alert Ben Stokes. This single moment, born from the pressure of a personal milestone, injected fresh energy into England and checked India’s progress.
Rahul reached his century shortly after, but the damage was done. India slipped from a strong position of 248 for 3 to 254 for 5. This brought England’s premier fast bowlers back into the contest with renewed purpose.
Despite the setback, India found resilience through Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja. Pant, though nursing an injured finger, played a characteristically aggressive innings of 74. He took the fight to England’s attack, including Jofra Archer, who delivered a blistering spell of fast bowling that consistently topped 90 mph. Pant’s frenetic knock was a mix of daring shots and calculated risks.
After Pant’s dismissal, Ravindra Jadeja took charge. He compiled a composed and technically sound 72, frustrating England’s bowlers with his disciplined defence and intelligent shot selection. He formed a crucial 72-run partnership with Nitish Kumar Reddy, steering India closer to England’s total.
England’s captain, Ben Stokes, was a central figure throughout the day. He bowled a fierce, sustained spell of short-pitched deliveries and later claimed key wickets with the new ball. His exceptional athleticism to effect Pant's run-out was a game-changing moment that underlined his competitive spirit.
Just as it seemed Jadeja might guide India to a first-innings lead, he was dismissed with the scores nearly level. The innings concluded shortly after, creating a rare and thrilling first-innings tie at the historic ground. With two full days of play remaining, the stage is now set for a compelling conclusion.
