India’s valiant resistance at Lord’s ended in heartbreak as the visitors fell just 22 runs short of a famous win on the final day of the third Test against England, despite gritty efforts from Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj.
In pursuit of a modest 193-run target, India slumped to 58/4 and later 82/7, before Jadeja and Bumrah stitched together a defiant stand that momentarily raised hopes of a remarkable heist. However, the spirited chase eventually crumbled, handing England a hard-fought victory and a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
Cricketing legends reacted with a mix of pride and disappointment. Sachin Tendulkar praised the trio of Jadeja, Bumrah, and Siraj for fighting till the very end. “So near, yet so far… Well tried, Team India. England played well to keep the pressure on and produced the result they desired,” he posted on X.
Sourav Ganguly, recalling his own Lord’s memories, called it a missed opportunity. “What a Test match… India will leave Lord’s very disappointed. They played well all three Tests but are down 2-1. It was a Test to be won,” he wrote.
Yuvraj Singh lauded the team’s mental strength in the high-pressure situation: “Not the result we wanted, but this match will be remembered for the fight we showed… A performance that demands respect — not just for the skill, but for the mindset.”
Former opener Wasim Jaffer echoed the sentiment, saying he was “proud of the fight” and hailed Jadeja’s determination and patience.
Harbhajan Singh credited the Indian players’ commitment, while Irfan Pathan pointed to England’s ability to seize crucial moments as the turning point of the game.
After both teams scored 387 in their respective first innings, the match appeared headed for a draw. But the Lord’s pitch came alive in the final six sessions, offering sharp movement and bounce. India bowled England out for 192, setting up a tantalising target, but Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer’s fiery spells ensured the hosts held their nerve.
Jadeja’s unbeaten 61 wasn’t enough to carry India over the line, despite his marathon stands with Bumrah and later Siraj. The visitors now trail 2-1 in the series, with two Tests to go.
