India's Missed Opportunity? Sudden Collapse and Late Drama Give England an Opening

🏏 India's Missed Opportunity? Sudden Collapse and Late Drama Give England an Opening

Published: June 22, 2025 | Category: Cricket | Reading Time: 3 min

India's dominant start unraveled dramatically on Day 3 of the second Test match against England at Lord’s, as a mid-innings collapse and late-session drama allowed the hosts to claw their way back into contention.

After resuming at a comfortable 237 for 3, India looked set for a big first-innings total. However, the dismissal of set batter Shubman Gill triggered a stunning collapse that saw the team lose seven wickets for just 68 runs, eventually folding for 305 — far short of what seemed possible just hours earlier.

England’s bowlers, led by a rejuvenated James Anderson and supported by Rehan Ahmed, exploited the overcast conditions with disciplined seam and swing. Anderson’s spell after lunch – 3 for 15 in 7 overs – turned the tide dramatically in England’s favor.

In response, England's top order looked shaky early on, with Mohammed Siraj striking twice to leave them at 28 for 2. But a steadying stand between Joe Root and Ben Duckett ensured that England ended the day at 118 for 3, trailing by 187 runs — but well in the game.

The real talking point came just before stumps when Ravindra Jadeja appeared to have trapped Duckett lbw, only for the decision to be overturned due to a marginal inside edge on review. Tempers flared and the momentum appeared to hang in the balance as the sun dipped behind the London skyline.

What This Means:

• India still holds the advantage, but the lead feels underwhelming given the early control.
• England has momentum and batting depth to push for parity or even a lead on Day 4.
• The pitch is starting to show variable bounce — spinners may dominate late on.

Next Session Preview:
India needs early wickets tomorrow morning. England, on the other hand, will be eyeing a solid first hour to tilt the match in their favor. With weather holding, Day 4 is poised to be the turning point of this thrilling Test.