IND vs ENG Test: The five-match Test series between England and India is delicately poised at 1-1 as both teams head to the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground for the third Test. After a dominant 336-run victory at Edgbaston, India will be looking to carry that momentum forward, while England will be keen to bounce back on home turf and take the series lead.
India vs England 3rd Test Match Details
India vs England 3rd Test Match Preview
India: India’s performance in the second Test at Edgbaston was nothing short of spectacular. Under the new Test captaincy of Shubman Gill, they defied expectations, especially after the loss in the first Test at Headingley. Gill led from the front with a monumental 269 in the first innings and followed it up with a crucial 161 in the second, showcasing his leadership with the bat.
The return of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the third Test will be a massive boost for India’s bowling attack. His absence in the second Test was barely felt thanks to a brilliant 10-wicket haul by Akash Deep in his debut, who is expected to retain his place. Mohammed Siraj also chipped in with seven wickets. The Indian batting, featuring centuries from Rishabh Pant in the first Test, and contributions from Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, looks solid. India will aim to maintain their aggressive yet controlled approach and exploit the conditions at Lord’s.
England: England, on the other hand, suffered a significant defeat at Edgbaston, which served as a wake-up call after their “Bazball” strategy saw them chase down a massive target in the first Test at Headingley. Their bowling attack struggled to contain the Indian batsmen, who amassed over 1000 runs across two innings.
In response, England has made swift changes, adding right-arm fast bowler Gus Atkinson to the squad. More significantly, head coach Brendon McCullum has hinted at the return of Jofra Archer, who has been training with the squad and is deemed “ready to go.” Archer’s inclusion, potentially alongside Atkinson, could provide the much-needed pace and challenge to the Indian batters. Chris Woakes, with his excellent Lord’s record, is likely to feature, while Josh Tongue or Brydon Carse might be rested due to heavy workloads. England will need their top order, including Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, and Joe Root, to fire if they are to put up a strong total and challenge India.
Pitch Report (Lord’s, London): The Lord’s pitch is renowned for its historical character. Early indications suggest a green pitch that has been well-watered, likely to assist fast bowlers, especially with the famous Lord’s slope. While it generally offers good bounce and movement for seamers, it tends to flatten out over time, becoming more conducive for batting in the latter half of the match. Spinners might get some assistance on Day 4 and 5 if the pitch wears down. A typical first-innings score at Lord’s in recent times can range from 300-350.
Historically, India’s Test record at Lord’s is not the best, with only two wins in 19 matches, though they have secured memorable victories in 2014 and 2021.
India vs England 3rd Test Fantasy Tips and Dream11 Prediction
For fantasy cricket enthusiasts, this Test match offers a plethora of options:
- Captain/Vice-Captain Picks:
- Batsmen: Shubman Gill (IND), Rishabh Pant (IND), Joe Root (ENG), Ben Duckett (ENG).
- All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja (IND), Ben Stokes (ENG), Chris Woakes (ENG).
- Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah (IND), Jofra Archer (ENG – if playing), Akash Deep (IND).
- Key Players to Watch Out For:
- From India: Shubman Gill (captaincy and batting form), Rishabh Pant (aggressive batting, crucial for quick runs), Jasprit Bumrah (return to pace attack, lethal with swing and seam), Akash Deep (excellent debut, looking to continue form).
- From England: Joe Root (anchor in the middle order), Ben Stokes (all-round impact), Jofra Archer (potential impact on return), Gus Atkinson (new inclusion, might be a differential pick).
- Bowler Selection Strategy: Given the early signs of a green pitch and Lord’s history, prioritize fast bowlers who can exploit the conditions. Jasprit Bumrah and Jofra Archer (if he plays) become must-haves. Akash Deep has shown great promise. Consider Chris Woakes given his excellent record at Lord’s. While spinners might not get immediate assistance, Ravindra Jadeja’s all-round capabilities and control make him a viable pick.
India vs England 3rd Test Match Prediction
The series is poised perfectly at 1-1, and the third Test at Lord’s promises to be a gripping encounter. India will carry significant confidence from their dominant win at Edgbaston, especially with the return of Jasprit Bumrah. England’s inclusion of Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson suggests a strong intent to bolster their bowling.
While England will have the home advantage and the “Bazball” approach, India’s recent form, particularly their batting strength and now a reinforced bowling attack, makes them strong contenders. India’s ability to take 20 wickets will be crucial.
Our Prediction: India is slightly favored to win this third Test match and take a 2-1 lead in the series. The return of Bumrah and Gill’s form might just tilt the scales in their favor.
