Crowd Reaction and Stokes’ Sarcastic Gesture

During the fourth day of the third Test match at Lord’s, tensions escalated as the Indian cricket team faced boos from the crowd. The incident unfolded when England captain Ben Stokes taunted Indian batsman KL Rahul with a sarcastic clap. This occurred after Indian player Akash Deep called for the physio to tape his right leg, a move reminiscent of England’s Zak Crawley calling for medical assistance on Day 3, which was criticized as time-wasting. The crowd’s reaction mirrored their earlier disapproval, and Stokes’ gesture was seen as a direct response to India captain Shubman Gill’s similar reaction to Crawley.

Match Developments and Key Performances

Despite the controversy, Ben Stokes had the last laugh by clean bowling Akash Deep with a remarkable delivery on the final ball of the day. India, chasing a target of 193, ended day four at 58 for four in their second innings. KL Rahul remained unbeaten on 33, while India lost key wickets including Yashasvi Jaiswal (0), Karun Nair (14), and Shubman Gill (6), trailing by 135 runs going into the final day.

England’s Innings and India’s Bowling Prowess

Earlier in the day, England was bowled out for 192 in their second innings over 62.1 overs. Washington Sundar shone with an impressive four-wicket haul, while Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah each claimed two wickets. Akash Deep also contributed with one wicket. England resumed their innings at 175 for six but quickly lost their remaining wickets for just 17 runs. Washington Sundar dismissed Ben Stokes shortly after tea and took out Shoaib Bashir as well. Jasprit Bumrah took crucial wickets of Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse.

Implications for the Final Day

As both teams prepare for the final day, India faces an uphill battle to reach the target set by England. The match remains finely poised, with both sides eager to claim victory in this closely contested series.