LONDON — Jamie Smith and Harry Brook staged a thrilling counterattack to keep England alive in the second Test against India, but the visitors remain firmly in control after an enthralling third day at Lord’s.
Smith and Brook Lead England’s Fightback
England, staring at a daunting first-innings deficit, were rescued by a brilliant 153-run partnership between debutant Jamie Smith (89) and Harry Brook (76). Their fearless batting against India’s formidable spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja turned the momentum briefly in England’s favor. "We knew we had to take the attack to them," Smith said after the day’s play.
The pair’s aggressive approach unsettled India’s bowlers, particularly targeting Jadeja, who conceded over four runs an over. Key moments included:
- Smith’s back-to-back sixes off Jadeja in the 48th over
- Brook’s reverse sweep against Ashwin to bring up his half-century
- A 22-run over against Jasprit Bumrah that shifted the pressure
India’s Bowlers Strike Back
Just as England threatened to erase India’s lead, Mohammed Siraj produced a fiery spell with the second new ball, dismissing both set batters in quick succession. Smith edged behind to KL Rahul, while Brook fell to a sharp bouncer. "Siraj’s spell was the turning point," admitted England captain Ben Stokes.
Lower Order Collapse
From 285/5, England lost their last five wickets for just 28 runs, folding for 313. Bumrah (3/68) and Siraj (3/84) shared the spoils, with Ashwin chipping in with two crucial wickets. India’s lead of 143 runs could prove decisive on a deteriorating pitch.
India Extend Dominance in Second Innings
India’s openers, Rohit Sharma (42*) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (35*), negotiated a tricky 15-over period before stumps, extending the lead to 178. England’s seamers, led by James Anderson, found some movement but failed to break through. "The pitch is starting to turn, and that’s a huge advantage for us," said Ashwin.
Key Takeaways Heading Into Day Four
With two days remaining, India are overwhelming favorites, but England showed glimpses of resistance. Critical factors for Day 4:
- India’s target: How much will they set England?
- Spin’s role: Can Ashwin and Jadeja exploit the rough?
- England’s openers: Can they survive the new ball?
Conclusion: Uphill Battle for England
While Smith and Brook’s heroics provided hope, India’s position remains commanding. England will need early wickets on Day 4 to have any chance of an unlikely victory. As Stokes put it, "We’ve been in tougher spots and come out on top. But this will take something special."