LONDON — In a match that will be etched into the annals of Test cricket history, India snatched a breathtaking six-run victory over England in a contest that swung like a pendulum until the final ball. Despite a heroic performance from Chris Woakes, who nearly pulled off a record-breaking chase, India's relentless bowling attack held their nerve to secure a win that left fans on the edge of their seats.
A Battle for the Ages
The fifth day at Lord's unfolded like a script from a Hollywood thriller. England, chasing a mammoth target of 378, were down and out at 183/7 before Woakes (89*) and Ollie Robinson (42) staged a stunning 120-run partnership. The hosts needed just 32 runs with three wickets in hand when Jasprit Bumrah delivered a searing yorker to dismiss Robinson, shifting the momentum back to India. "It was one of those moments where you either win it or lose it—no in-between," said Indian captain Rohit Sharma in the post-match press conference.
Woakes' Valiant Effort
Chris Woakes, playing his first Test in over a year, batted with the composure of a seasoned veteran. His 89* included 12 boundaries and two sixes, keeping England's hopes alive until the very end. "I thought we had it when Woakes was out there," admitted England coach Brendon McCullum. "But credit to India—they never let up." Key moments from his innings:
- A six off Ravindra Jadeja over long-on when England needed 50.
- A crucial boundary off Mohammed Shami to bring the equation down to 20.
- A near-miss run-out chance that could have sealed the game earlier.
India's Bowling Masterclass
India's pace quartet—Bumrah, Shami, Siraj, and Thakur—delivered under immense pressure. Bumrah's fiery spell (3/68) included the wicket of Joe Root, while Shami's reverse swing accounted for Jonny Bairstow. "We knew if we got one, we could get two or three quickly," said Bumrah. The turning point came when Siraj trapped Woakes lbw, though replays showed it was umpire's call.
Key Stats from the Match
- Highest successful run chase at Lord's: 344 (West Indies, 1984). England fell agonizingly short.
- Woakes' 89* is the highest score by an England No. 8 in a fourth innings.
- India's 378 is their highest fourth-innings total conceded in a win.
Post-Match Reactions
England captain Ben Stokes was gracious in defeat: "Games like this are why we play Test cricket. Credit to India—they were relentless. Woakesy was unbelievable, but sometimes the other team just plays better." Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma praised his team's resilience: "This is why we love Test cricket. Every session was a fight."
The match also reignited debates about England's 'Bazball' approach. While their aggressive batting nearly pulled off a miracle, critics questioned the shot selection of key batsmen like Root and Stokes. Former England skipper Michael Vaughan tweeted: "Bazball is thrilling, but you still need game awareness. Today, India showed how to balance aggression with patience."
What's Next?
The series now moves to Headingley, with India leading 1-0. England will be without James Anderson, who picked up a groin strain, while India may bring in R Ashwin for spin-friendly conditions. "We’ll take the confidence from this win, but we know England will come back harder," said Sharma.
For now, cricket fans worldwide are left to savor a match that had everything—drama, heroics, and a finish that reminded everyone why Test cricket remains the pinnacle of the sport. As Woakes walked off to a standing ovation, even the Indian players applauded. "That’s the spirit of cricket," said Stokes. "No losers today."