England Dictates Play with Root's Milestone Century
The iconic Lord's ground buzzed with anticipation on Day 2 of the third Test between India and England. England flexed their muscles in the first innings, piling up an imposing total of 387/4 as the Indian bowlers worked tirelessly to break through. The day started with India hoping to seize quick wickets, but England's captain Joe Root had other ideas.
Root calmly chipped away at the Indian attack, reaching his 37th Test century with a crisp boundary off Umesh Yadav. This milestone not only marked another highlight in Root’s glittering career but also gave England crucial breathing room on a surface that was beginning to show signs of unpredictable bounce. He played late, used the crease wisely, and punished anything loose, frustrating India’s bowlers who struggled to create chances.
- Root's century stitched together valuable partnerships as the middle order stood firm.
- Ben Stokes, Root’s partner in a crucial stand, appeared set until Jasprit Bumrah unleashed a perfect delivery to send him back, sparking some hope for India.
- This wicket halted what looked like a dangerous surge from England, but the hosts kept adding to the total, ending just four wickets down at 387.
India's Reply: Rahul Steadies, But England Ahead
When India came out to bat, the England pace attack didn't make life easy. The ball zipped and jagged, and the uneven bounce made shot selection a gamble. The Indian openers started cautiously, aware that a strong reply was crucial. Yet, wickets began to tumble at regular intervals.
The pressure of chasing England’s total showed. Three Indian wickets—each celebrated loudly by the Lord’s crowd—fell before the day was done, leaving India in a tricky spot. However, KL Rahul’s resilience at the crease gave Indian fans something to cheer. He reached a gritty, unbeaten half-century, weathering the storm and playing the ball late to counter the unpredictable bounce. Batting with him, Rishabh Pant showed glimpses of counter-attacking flair, finishing on 19 not out as stumps were drawn.
India closed Day 2 on 145/3, still trailing England by 242 runs. The pitch’s mischief continues to test both nerves and skill, setting up a fascinating showdown for Day 3. With the series tied at 1-1, things are perfectly poised: can Rahul and Pant rebuild the innings and shift momentum, or will England tighten their grip?
