India Lose Thriller at Lord’s: England Seal Victory on Final Day

In a gripping finale at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground, India suffered a 22-run defeat to England on the final day of the Test match. The game swung dramatically on Day 5, with India needing 135 runs to win and England chasing six wickets. With no rain interruptions, a draw was unlikely—and the match indeed produced a result. Both teams had posted identical scores of 387 in their first innings. However, in the second innings, India’s bowlers restricted England to just 192, setting up a target of 193 for victory. Despite the relatively low target, India collapsed for 170. India resumed the day at 58 for 4, but England struck early.

In the third over of the day, Jofra Archer bowled out Rishabh Pant. Soon after, KL Rahul—who had fought hard on the previous day—was trapped leg-before for 39. Washington Sundar failed to contribute, dismissed for a duck after facing just four deliveries. At 82 for 7, India’s hopes were hanging by a thread. Ravindra Jadeja then staged a lone battle, attempting to build a resistance with Nitish Kumar Reddy.

But Nitish could only manage 13 off 53 balls before falling. Jasprit Bumrah held on for a while, facing 54 balls, but did not accelerate the scoring. Mohammed Siraj offered brief support but was eventually bowled by Gus Atkinson after making 4 off 30 balls. Jadeja remained unbeaten on 61 from 181 deliveries, but his valiant effort couldn’t take India over the line. England’s consistent pressure and India’s fragile batting led to the 22-run defeat. With this result, the series is now level. The Lord’s Test once again proved why the final day of a Test match can still offer some of the most thrilling moments in cricket.