LONDON: England edged out India by 22 runs in a dramatic third Test at Lord’s, grabbing a crucial 2-1 lead in the five-match series. The gripping contest saw bowlers dominate the final innings, with India falling short in their pursuit of a modest 193-run target.

Chasing the target on a challenging pitch, India were bowled out for 170, with only Ravindra Jadeja offering sustained resistance. The all-rounder stood tall with a gritty 61 not out, while KL Rahul contributed 39. However, the rest of the Indian batting lineup collapsed, with most players failing to reach double digits.

England’s bowling attack, led by Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer, proved too much to handle. Both claimed three wickets each, with Gus Atkinson taking two, while Chris Woakes and Shoaib Bashir chipped in with one apiece to wrap up India’s innings.

Earlier in the match, England won the toss and made full use of the conditions to post 387 in their first innings. Veteran Joe Root anchored the effort with a brilliant 104, supported by Braden Carus (56), Jamie Smith (51), and Ollie Pope (44).

India responded strongly with a first-innings total of 387, matching England run-for-run. KL Rahul continued his fine form with a century, while Rishabh Pant (74) and Ravindra Jadeja (72) provided solid support. Karun Nair chipped in with a valuable 40.

The match became a second-innings showdown, and England were restricted to just 192 in their second outing. But it was enough, as the Indian batting crumbled under pressure in the fourth innings chase.

With the series now tilting in England’s favor, the two sides will prepare for a high-stakes fourth Test. England will look to seal the series, while India must regroup quickly if they hope to bounce back.