LONDON — Brydon Carse delivered a sensational late spell to keep England’s hopes alive on a gripping fourth day of the third Test against India at Lord’s, leaving the visitors reeling at 58-4 in pursuit of 193 for victory.
Carse, playing just his second Test, ripped through India’s top order with a fiery burst of 3-15 in five overs under fading light, swinging the momentum dramatically in England’s favor. India, who had dominated large parts of the day, now need another 135 runs with six wickets remaining on what promises to be a nerve-shredding final day.
Carse’s Heroics Turn the Tide
After England were bowled out for 319 in their second innings, setting India a tricky target of 193, Carse seized the moment with a spell that combined raw pace, swing, and pinpoint accuracy. His victims included the dangerous Rohit Sharma (17), Shubman Gill (4), and the in-form Virat Kohli (9), all falling to edges behind the wicket. "Carse was simply unplayable in that spell," said England captain Ben Stokes. "He’s shown why we’ve backed him—he’s got that X-factor."
India had looked in control earlier, with Jasprit Bumrah (4-67) and Mohammed Shami (3-85) dismantling England’s middle order. But a counterattacking 73 from Ollie Pope and a gritty 42 from Ben Foakes gave the hosts something to defend. Carse then turned the game on its head with his late burst, leaving India’s chase in disarray.
Key Moments of the Day
The day was packed with drama, shifting fortunes, and standout performances. Here are the pivotal moments:
- Pope’s Counterattack: Ollie Pope’s aggressive 73 off 98 balls, including 10 fours, revived England from 145-5.
- Bumrah’s Brilliance: India’s spearhead removed Joe Root (31) and Stokes (22) in quick succession to keep the pressure on.
- Foakes’ Grit: The wicketkeeper’s 42 ensured England’s lead stretched beyond 190, a tricky total on a deteriorating pitch.
- Carse’s Fire: His three-wicket burst in the final hour left India’s chase in tatters.
India’s Chase in Jeopardy
At stumps, India’s hopes rested on the shoulders of Ravindra Jadeja (12*) and nightwatchman Axar Patel (0*), with Rishabh Pant and the lower order still to come. The pitch, offering variable bounce and sharp turn for spinners, makes the target far from straightforward. "We’ve seen how quickly things can change on this surface," said India’s batting coach Vikram Rathour. "It’s going to be a tense morning."
What Lies Ahead on Day Five
With 135 runs needed and six wickets in hand, the match hangs in the balance. England will bank on James Anderson and Carse to strike early, while India will rely on Jadeja and Pant to steer them home. The weather forecast is clear, ensuring a full day’s play. "This is what Test cricket is all about," said Stokes. "One more push, and we could pull off something special."
England’s fightback has set up a tantalizing finale, ensuring a packed Lord’s crowd will witness a thrilling conclusion. If Carse and Co. can strike early, India’s lower order will face immense pressure. Conversely, if Jadeja and Pant settle in, the visitors could clinch a famous win.
Statistically, teams chasing sub-200 in the fourth innings at Lord’s have a mixed record. Since 2010, seven out of 12 such chases have been successful, but none against an attack as varied as England’s. The morning session could decide the outcome.
Final Thoughts
Brydon Carse’s spell has given England a lifeline in a Test that seemed to be slipping away. His ability to extract movement under lights has left India with a mountain to climb. As the sun rises on day five, one thing is certain: cricket fans are in for a nail-biting finish. "This is why we play the game," said Carse. "Moments like these define careers."