England’s Victory & India’s Loss
I have been thinking about England’s victory and India’s loss at Lord’s when Siraj’s defensive prod unknowingly guided the ball, which spun around his legs to hit the base of the leg stump. Out came the bail from its socket, ending the match in an unexpected fashion.
India Just Missed the Killer Punch
There is more to it, however, in the saga that unfolded over all five days of the test match. The game was in India’s grasp as the young Indian team pushed England to the periphery, and just when it was time to deliver that killer punch, the aggressors lost balance, giving the hosts an opportunity to hit back and take the match.
A Series of Events Needs to Be Looked At
There were bits of events that, when looked at, give us a clearer picture of the heartbreaking loss.
England Escape After KL Drops Jamie Smith
India had England at 271/7 in the first innings. Jamie Smith and Brydon Carse were at the crease. India had the opportunity to quickly mop up the tail with Bumrah in the mix. But that was not to be. Jamie Smith was dropped when he had hardly scored. Rahul misjudged a thick edge that flew to his right off Siraj. He tried to cup it, but it slipped away. Jamie Smith went on to get a 50 and, along with Brydon Carse, put together an 84-run partnership. England were bailed out and reached a respectable 387.
Pant’s Run Out Subdues India
Another event that had a telling impact on the game was Rishabh Pant’s run-out when India batted in the first innings. The ball had gone soft, and both Rahul and Pant were dominating the English bowlers with ease. There was nothing happening for the host. But then a brilliant throw from Ben Stokes caught Rishabh Pant out of the crease while attempting a risky single. A 141-run partnership, which had completely flattened England, was broken. KL Rahul too departed quickly thereafter, and instead of taking a healthy lead, which was looking possible at one time, India finished at the same score as England.
Brydon Carse’s Belligerent Spell Puts England in Front
A vital event which also had a terrific impact on the match was the spell of Brydon Carse late on the 4th day when India began its chase of the target of 193. It has to be mentioned that India bowled brilliantly to restrict England to 192. Washington Sundar was simply sensational. But Carse, bowling with tremendous intent and heart, got through Karun Nair and then had the prized wicket of Shubman Gill to put India in trouble. Ben Stokes too bowled tirelessly, and with Jofra Archer running in with great pace, it was all too hot to handle.
Pant & Rahul’s Wicket On The 5th Morning Swung The Match In England’s Favour
Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul departing early on Day 5 and low scores from Jaiswal and Gill were few of the other events which surely had an impact on the game. The Indians needed just one partnership, which unfortunately never arrived.
Sport is Harsh
Sport is harsh at times, and certainly India’s young team, led by a young captain, will learn from this experience.
England In Driver’s Seat For The Series
The series is now 2-1 in favour of England, going into the 4th test at Old Trafford, Manchester. They have pulled a rabbit out of the hat. Ben Stokes’ effort and the return of Jofra Archer will give the hosts massive confidence going forward in the series.
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