England take 2-1 lead with a thrilling 22-run win at Lord’s
Test cricket doesn’t get more intense than this. The third Test between England and India at Lord’s had all the ingredients of a classic—grit, drama, heartbreak, and a fair bit of heroism. England held their nerve and edged past India by 22 runs, going 2-1 up in the five-match series.
India needed 193 to win and started Day 5 at 58/4. The hopes were pinned on KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant, but England’s pace attack, led by Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer, had other plans. Stokes bowled his heart out in a 24-over spell, picking three crucial wickets, including Rahul and Bumrah. Archer got into the act too, rattling the Indian batters early.
Talking Points: ENG vs IND
1. Jadeja fights alone:
Ravindra Jadeja was India’s last real hope. He played with calm and purpose, scoring 61* and guiding India closer with every over. His stand with Bumrah was brave, and even Siraj held on longer than most expected. But in the end, Jadeja ran out of partners.
2. Stokes the workhorse:
Ben Stokes once again proved why he’s one of the best in the world. His spell on the final morning was relentless. Not only did he take wickets, but he also kept the pressure on, never letting the game drift. He finished with five wickets and the Player of the Match award.
3. Bashir’s broken-finger magic:
Shoaib Bashir, playing with a fractured finger, delivered the final blow. His spinning delivery to Siraj cleaned him up and sealed the match. That kind of effort doesn’t show up in numbers, but it wins hearts and matches.
Who Said What?
Ben Stokes:
“I was cooked yesterday, but when the game’s on the line, nothing’s stopping me. I just had a gut feeling about Jofra and he delivered. Bashir? That last wicket was written in the stars.”
Shubman Gill:
“We fought hard. Jadeja was brilliant. One more partnership and we’re probably home. The scoreline doesn’t reflect the fight we showed. But the series is still alive.”
Final Word:
This Test had everything fans could ask for. England now leads the ENG vs IND Test Series 2025, and the pressure is squarely on India heading into the fourth Test. They’ll need more than just individual brilliance; they’ll need a team effort.
