LORD'S — A heroic performance from Ben Stokes inspired England to a thrilling 22-run victory over a stubborn India on the final day of the third Test at Lord's, leveling the series at 1-1 in a match that will be remembered for its nail-biting finish.
Stokes, playing his first Test as England's full-time captain, delivered a masterclass in leadership and resilience, scoring a crucial 89 in the second innings and taking three vital wickets to dismantle India's chase. His fiery spell in the afternoon session, where he removed Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara in quick succession, turned the game decisively in England's favor.
Stokes' Heroics with Bat and Ball
With England reeling at 45-4 in their second innings, Stokes stepped up when his team needed him most. His counterattacking knock, laced with 12 boundaries, shifted momentum back to the hosts. "I just tried to play the situation," Stokes said post-match. "When the team's under pressure, you have to find a way to respond, and today was one of those days where everything clicked."
His bowling was equally impactful. After India started strongly in their chase of 251, Stokes brought himself into the attack and immediately struck, dismissing Kohli for 29 with a sharp bouncer. Pujara followed soon after, trapped LBW by a seaming delivery.
- Stokes' figures: 3/42 in 14 overs
- Key wickets: Kohli, Pujara, and Rishabh Pant
- Match-defining spell: 6-2-15-2 after lunch
India's Defiant Resistance
Despite Stokes' brilliance, India fought valiantly. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami frustrated England with a 45-run stand for the ninth wicket, raising hopes of an improbable win. Shami, in particular, played some audacious strokes, including two sixes off Stuart Broad.
However, James Anderson, England's evergreen seamer, broke the partnership by trapping Bumrah LBW, before Ollie Robinson sealed the win by dismissing Shami. "We knew it would be tough, but credit to our bowlers for staying patient," Stokes said.
Turning Points of the Match
Several key moments defined this Test:
- Day 1: India's top-order collapse (98/5) before Pant's counterattack (78)
- Day 3: England's middle-order collapse (45/4) before Stokes' rescue act
- Day 5: Stokes' double strike to remove Kohli and Pujara
India's captain, Rohit Sharma, admitted his team missed opportunities. "We had chances to close the game, but England outplayed us in critical phases. Stokes was the difference."
What's Next for Both Teams?
With the series now level, the focus shifts to Headingley for the fourth Test. India will be without Ravindra Jadeja, who suffered a hamstring injury, while England may consider recalling Mark Wood for extra pace.
Stokes, meanwhile, hailed his team's fighting spirit. "This is why we play Test cricket—for moments like these. The belief in the dressing room is incredible, and we’ll carry that into the next game."
As the sun set over Lord's, England celebrated a hard-fought win, but India's resilience ensures the series remains finely poised. The battle for the Pataudi Trophy is far from over.