India’s Struggle in the Test Series
The Indian cricket team has shown resilience in the five-match Test series against England, yet they face a potential 1-3 series loss. Despite winning most of the sessions during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, the Shubman Gill-led side is on the brink of defeat. With England needing just 35 runs to win the fifth Test, India finds itself in a precarious position. The series began with a five-wicket defeat for India, followed by a commanding 336-run victory in the second match. However, subsequent losses in the third game by 22 runs and a thrilling draw in the fourth have left India struggling.
Expert Opinions on India’s Performance
Commentator Harsha Bhogle likened the series to a tennis match, where one team wins more games but the other wins more sets. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar agreed, emphasizing that results are what ultimately matter. He noted that unless India wins this final game to level the series, England would be considered the superior team.
Rain Delays and India’s Fightback
Rain interrupted play during the evening session of the final Test, pushing it to day five. Despite being down and out, India managed to stay in contention thanks to impressive centuries from Joe Root and Harry Brook, which nearly secured victory for England. However, India’s bowlers, led by Mohammed Siraj, mounted a spirited comeback after tea.
Key Performances and Turning Points
Root scored his 39th Test century, his 13th against India and third of this series, before being caught behind off Prasidh Krishna. Brook was dismissed before tea, leaving England at 337 for six. The old ball began aiding Indian pacers as the scoreboard stagnated, making England’s remaining 37 runs seem distant.
Conclusion and Day Five Prospects
As play was halted due to bad light with England at 339 for six and just 3.4 overs away from a new ball, rain ensured that the match would extend to day five. Jamie Overton and Jamie Smith were at the crease with momentum shifting towards India.