On a tense opening day of the third Test at Lord’s, England’s Joe Root delivered an unbeaten 99, stabilizing his team against India’s early breakthroughs. England ended the day at 251-4, a position that belies the initial struggles after paceman Nitish Kumar Reddy’s double strike left them reeling at 44-2.
Root, a seasoned veteran with 156 Test matches under his belt, once again showcased his resilience. His innings was crucial as England’s run-rate hovered just above three an over, a stark contrast to their aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach. Meanwhile, captain Ben Stokes, who won the toss under clear skies, supported Root with an unbeaten 39, contributing to an unbroken 79-run partnership for the fifth wicket.
Stokes’ Injury Concerns
However, the day wasn’t without its concerns for England. Stokes appeared to tweak his groin late in the day, raising alarms over his fitness. As an all-rounder, his potential absence could significantly impact England’s strategy, especially with fast bowler Jofra Archer making a comeback after a prolonged injury hiatus.
Root’s earlier partnership with Ollie Pope, which added 109 runs in 35 overs, was instrumental in steadying the innings. Pope, who narrowly avoided a first-ball duck, reflected on the day’s play, saying, “It’s not always been the way we’ve gone about our cricket, but I think long term in the game hopefully that will reward us if we can kick on tomorrow.”
India’s Bowling Strategy and Reddy’s Impact
The spotlight before the match was on Jasprit Bumrah’s return, but it was Reddy who stole the show. The 22-year-old, playing his first match at Lord’s, exploited the slope from the Nursery End to claim two crucial wickets, ending the day with figures of 2-46 from 14 overs.
Reddy’s first victim, Ben Duckett, was caught down the legside, while Zak Crawley fell to a superb delivery that swung late. “I feel great bowling from that (Nursery) end,” Reddy commented post-play. “I don’t know much about the slope, but from that end when I bowled it’s been moving a lot, and after pitching also it’s going good.”
Root’s Masterclass and England’s Challenges
Root, ranked second in the global Test batting rankings, was in his element, reaching his fifty with a deft flick through fine leg. His composure was evident as he approached what could have been his 37th Test century, only to be thwarted by the close of play and a bizarre interruption by ladybirds swarming the ground.
As the day drew to a close, Stokes, still visibly hampered by his injury, was unable to rotate the strike effectively against Akash Deep. Root, left on 99, will resume his innings with the hope of reaching another milestone at Lord’s.
Looking Ahead
England’s strategy on the second day will hinge on Root’s ability to convert his innings into a century and the extent of Stokes’ injury. The team’s depth will be tested, particularly if Stokes is unable to bowl, placing additional pressure on Archer and the rest of the bowling attack.
Meanwhile, India will look to capitalize on any English missteps, with Bumrah and Reddy spearheading their attack. The series, currently poised at 1-1, promises further drama as both teams vie for dominance at the historic venue.
