LONDON: In a pulsating contest that kept fans on edge until the final moments, England clinched a dramatic 22-run victory over India at Lord’s, taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match Test series with two games remaining.

Chasing a modest target of 193 on the final day, India collapsed to 147-9, leaving hopes of a miraculous comeback resting on Ravindra Jadeja and last man Mohammed Siraj. The duo resisted bravely after tea, raising Indian hopes before off-spinner Shoaib Bashir—despite nursing a finger injury—produced the decisive moment. A subtle delivery spun past Siraj’s defensive shot and clipped the leg bail to bowl India out for 170.

Jadeja’s Heroics Fall Short

Jadeja remained unbeaten on 61 off 150 balls, his fourth straight half-century of the series, anchoring the tail with grit and poise. But his lone hand wasn’t enough as Siraj’s dismissal left him stranded and heartbroken. Siraj, who had defended doggedly, could only watch as England erupted in celebration.

Stokes and Archer Steal the Show

Ben Stokes, leading England with both intent and resilience, delivered a captain’s performance with 3-48 in 24 overs, including crucial spells late in the game. Partnering him was Jofra Archer, making a powerful return to Test cricket after a four-year injury layoff, grabbing 3-55 and bowling with hostile pace throughout.

Reflecting on the emotional toll of the contest, Stokes said,

“If bowling to win a Test for your country doesn’t fire you up, nothing will. I took myself to some pretty dark places today, but it was worth it.”

A Roller-Coaster Final Day

India resumed day five at 71-4 and lost momentum quickly. Stokes and Archer made early breakthroughs, with Archer removing dangerman Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar in quick succession. Pant, known for his counterattacks, was bowled for 9 by a searing delivery, while Sundar fell to a brilliant return catch from Archer.

KL Rahul, who had scored a century in the first innings, failed to replicate his form and fell lbw to Stokes after adding just six runs to his overnight score. India slipped from 71-4 to 82-7 in a devastating collapse.

Brief Fightback from India’s Tail

Jasprit Bumrah and Jadeja added 35 gritty runs for the eighth wicket, consuming valuable time and testing England’s patience. Bumrah’s vigil ended when he top-edged a pull shot off Stokes to substitute Sam Cook at mid-on. Jadeja, meanwhile, continued to frustrate England, surviving an LBW review and grinding his way past fifty.

The innings was extended past the scheduled tea break due to India’s resistance, but the end came shortly after as Bashir’s sharp turner removed Siraj, sealing the win.

Historic Day for Archer and Stokes

The victory was especially symbolic as it came exactly six years after Stokes and Archer played pivotal roles in England’s 2019 World Cup triumph at the same venue. Archer said of his comeback:

“It was hectic and emotional. I bowled more overs than expected, but every one mattered today.”

Series Now Tipped in England’s Favour

With the series delicately poised before this Test, England now head into the fourth match with a psychological edge. India, meanwhile, will rue their batting collapse and look to regroup as they aim to level the series in the remaining matches.

The contest at Lord’s not only revived the classic Test drama but showcased resilience, grit, and individual brilliance—marking it as one of the most memorable Tests in recent memory.