Ben Stokes let out a fierce roar as he clean bowled Akash Deep in the final session of Day 4, ending the day on a high for England and shifting the momentum dramatically in their favour at Lord’s. The England skipper`s timely strike capped a spirited comeback from the hosts, who now have India under significant pressure heading into the final day of the third Test.
Chasing a modest but tricky 193 for victory, India closed the day on 58 for 4, still 135 runs adrift of the target. While KL Rahul stood firm at the crease with an unbeaten 33, the collapse around him has left the visitors in a precarious position with just six wickets in hand.
India’s chase started on a shaky note. Jofra Archer, generating pace and lift from the surface, drew first blood by dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal early. The blow rattled the top order, and England pounced on the opportunity. Brydon Carse then delivered a fiery spell, removing Karun Nair and the in-form Shubman Gill in quick succession. With the top order dismantled, the responsibility fell to Rahul and debutant Deep to weather the storm.
But just as the pair seemed to be stabilising the innings, Stokes produced a moment of brilliance. With the light fading and tension building, the England captain delivered a sharp delivery that snuck through Deep’s defences, shattering the stumps and sending the crowd at Lord’s into raptures.
Earlier in the day, India’s bowlers had put the team in a commanding position by bundling out England for just 192 in their second innings. Washington Sundar was the standout performer, spinning a web around England’s middle order with figures of 4 for 22. His dismissals of Joe Root, Stokes, and Jamie Smith proved pivotal in keeping England’s lead within reach.
What makes this Test even more gripping is the symmetry in the first innings, both teams scored 387, a rare occurrence in Test cricket. It meant that neither side had an upper hand heading into the second half of the match, setting up a dramatic fourth innings showdown.
As Day 5 looms, the stage is set for a thrilling finish. India will hope Rahul can anchor the chase while the lower order finds a way to support him.
