Root Holds the Line as England Survives Indian Storm at Lord’s

Image Source : The Guardian

England’s third Test against India at Lord’s opened with a refreshing throwback to classical cricket, as Joe Root’s unbeaten 99 anchored the hosts to a resilient 251/4 by stumps on Day 1.

Key Highlights from Day 1:

England won the toss and chose to bat, a rare move under Ben Stokes’ leadership.
Nitish Kumar Reddy stunned early with a double strike in his first over, removing Duckett and Crawley.
Joe Root steadied the innings with a masterful 99* off 191 balls, showcasing patience and precision.
Ollie Pope contributed 44 in a 109run stand with Root before falling to Jadeja posttea.
Jasprit Bumrah returned with menace, dismissing Harry Brook with a sharp inswinger.
Ben Stokes added 39* in an unbroken 79run partnership with Root, though he appeared to tweak his groin late in the day.
Play was briefly interrupted by a swarm of ladybirds, adding a surreal twist to an otherwise gritty day.

Session Breakdown:

Morning: England stumbled to 44/2, with Reddy’s surprise burst unsettling the top order.
Afternoon: Root and Pope dug in, slowing the tempo and absorbing pressure.
Evening: Pope fell early, Brook followed, but Root and Stokes held firm to close the day.

Stat Watch: