Daijiworld Media Network - London

London, Jul 14: In one of the most gripping Test matches in recent memory, England edged past a fighting Indian side by 22 runs at Lord’s to take a 2-1 lead in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series. Despite a valiant unbeaten 61 from Ravindra Jadeja, India fell just short on the fifth day, bowled out for 170 in pursuit of 193.

Resuming on 58/4, India’s hopes were dented early as Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer dismantled the top order, removing key batters like Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul. Washington Sundar was dismissed for a duck, leaving India reeling at 82/7 before Jadeja and debutant Nitish Reddy added some resistance.

Jadeja battled for 181 balls, crafting his fourth consecutive Test half-century, as he shepherded the lower order with patience and grit. He forged a stubborn 35-run stand with Jasprit Bumrah, who bravely defended 34 deliveries before falling to Stokes’ relentless short-ball strategy.

With just two wickets in hand post-tea, Jadeja and Mohammed Siraj raised Indian hopes, taking the deficit below 25 runs. But in the 75th over, Siraj was bowled by Shoaib Bashir as the ball trickled onto the stumps after striking his bat, ending India’s dream of a famous win.

Stokes and Archer were England’s standout bowlers with three wickets apiece. Brydon Carse took two, while Woakes and Bashir chipped in with one each, the latter bowling through a finger injury.

The win was particularly special for England, coming on the anniversary of their historic 2019 ODI World Cup win at the same venue.

Match Summary:
• England: 387 & 192
• India: 387 & 170
• England won by 22 runs

• Top performers:
o Ravindra Jadeja: 61* (181)
o Ben Stokes: 3/48
o Jofra Archer: 3/55
o Washington Sundar: 4/22 (1st innings)

India now faces a must-win situation in the remaining two Tests to reclaim the trophy, while England look to press their advantage and seal the series.