India’s Resilience Shines Through Adverse Conditions

In a gripping final Test match, India showcased remarkable resilience against England, despite facing a formidable batting display from Joe Root and Harry Brook. The evening session was interrupted by rain, pushing the series-deciding match to a fifth day. England appeared to be in control with Root and Brook scoring impressive centuries, but India’s determination kept them in the game. Root scored 105, while Brook contributed 111 off 98 balls, nearly sealing the contest for England. However, Indian bowlers, led by Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, refused to concede defeat.

Key Dismissals Shift Momentum

Brook was dismissed before tea, and Root was caught behind off Prasidh Krishna shortly after reaching his 39th Test century—his third of the series against India. The dismissal of Jacob Bethell by Krishna left England at 337 for six. The old ball, which had been ineffective earlier, began to assist the pacers, slowing England’s progress significantly.

Weather Delays Add Drama

As Jamie Overton and Jamie Smith took the field, bad light halted play with England at 339 for six, just 37 runs shy of victory. The new ball was only 3.4 overs away when rain intervened, extending the match to a fifth day. Earlier in the afternoon session, a formidable 195-run partnership between Brook and Root had propelled England to 317 for four at tea.

Indian Bowlers Fight Back

Despite struggling with a softer ball and ineffective spin from Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja, India’s bowlers persisted. Siraj’s lion-hearted spell in the morning session saw him take two crucial wickets, leaving England at 164 for three at lunch. Prasidh Krishna provided an early breakthrough by dismissing Ben Duckett.

England’s Record Chase Under Threat

England began the day needing 324 runs for victory, aiming to surpass their highest successful chase at this ground since 1902. As the match heads into its final day, India’s spirited performance has kept their hopes alive in this thrilling contest.