India vs. England 3rd Test at Lord’s: Thrilling Final Day Awaits as India Need 135 Runs
The 3rd Test match between India and England at Lord’s has reached a gripping climax on July 14, 2025, with India needing 135 runs to secure victory on the final day, holding six wickets in hand. The match, part of the 2025 World Test Championship series, has been a rollercoaster, with both teams showcasing resilience and skill.
Match Situation
At the close of Day 4, India’s chase of a challenging target was rocked early by England’s fiery pacer Jofra Archer, who dismissed opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, leaving India in a precarious position. However, the experienced duo of KL Rahul and Shubman Gill steadied the innings, with support from the middle order, setting up a tantalizing finish. With 135 runs still required and six wickets remaining, the outcome hangs in the balance, promising a nail-biting day of cricket at the Home of Cricket.
Washington Sundar’s Impact
India’s spinner Washington Sundar played a pivotal role in keeping India in the game. His disciplined bowling in England’s second innings restricted their lead, picking up crucial wickets, including that of England’s centurion Zak Crawley. Sundar’s ability to exploit the Lord’s surface, combined with disciplined pace bowling from Jasprit Bumrah, ensured England couldn’t run away with the game, setting a target that, while steep, remains achievable.
Key Moments
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Jofra Archer’s Breakthrough: Archer’s fiery spell saw him dismiss the in-form Yashasvi Jaiswal early in India’s chase, sending shockwaves through the dressing room.
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Zak Crawley’s Century: England’s second innings was bolstered by Crawley’s resilient ton, supported by Joe Root, setting a challenging target for India.
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India’s Response: KL Rahul and Shubman Gill’s gritty partnership has kept India’s hopes alive, with the likes of Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja still to come.
What to Expect on Day 5
The final day at Lord’s promises high drama. England’s bowling attack, led by Archer and supported by spinners Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir, will aim to exploit early morning conditions to trigger a collapse. For India, Rahul and Gill’s experience, combined with Pant’s aggressive batting, could tilt the scales. The Lord’s pitch, offering some turn and variable bounce, will test both teams’ skills and nerves.
Why This Match Matters
A victory for India would give them a crucial lead in the series and boost their World Test Championship standings. For England, defending the target would reaffirm their resurgence under Ben Stokes’ leadership. With the series finely poised, the outcome at Lord’s could shape the narrative for the remaining Tests.
