IND vs ENG Test Day 5 at Lord’s is poised for an unforgettable climax. After four days of gripping cricket, India stands at 58/4, needing 135 more runs to win. England, defending a modest 193-run target, must take six wickets to level the series. The tension is palpable. It is Test cricket at its finest—a battle of nerves, skill, and sheer willpower.
Table of Contents
Match Recap: How We Got Here
England’s Second Innings Collapse (192 all out)
England began Day 4 with a slim 2-run lead but crumbled against India’s disciplined bowling. Washington Sundar (4/22) was the star, exploiting the deteriorating pitch with a sharp turn and bounce. Jasprit Bumrah and Siraj provided crucial support, ensuring England couldn’t build a big lead.
India’s Rocky Chase (58/4 at stumps)
India’s pursuit started disastrously:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal (0) fell to Jofra Archer’s fiery second over.
- Shubman Gill (6) and Karun Nair (14) fell to Brydon Carse’s seam movement.
- Nightwatchman Akash Deep (1) was trapped LBW by Ben Stokes on the final ball.
Only KL Rahul (33*) stood firm, battling England’s relentless attack.
Key Moments That Shaped the Game
1. Sundar’s Spin Masterclass
Washington Sundar’s 4-wicket haul dismantled England’s middle order. His dismissal of Joe Root (41) with a sharp-turning delivery was the game-changer.
2. England’s Bowling Resurgence
- Jofra Archer’s early strike set the tone.
- Brydon Carse’s twin blows exposed India’s shaky top order.
- Ben Stokes’ last-ball wicket shifted momentum back to England.
3. Rahul’s Lone Resistance
KL Rahul’s unbeaten 33 showcased grit and technique. His ability to leave balls outside off-stump and punish loose deliveries keeps India’s hopes alive.
The Deciding Factors for Day 5
India’s Path to Victory
- KL Rahul’s Continuation – If he bats through the first session, India wins.
- Pant-Jadeja’s Counterattack – Their aggressive style could disrupt England’s rhythm.
- Pitch Behavior – Slower turn on Day 5 might ease batting slightly.
England’s Route to Success
- Early Wickets – Break Rahul’s resolve, and India collapses.
- Stokes-Archer’s Short-Ball Tactics – Target India’s lower order with bouncers.
- Field Placements – Close-in catchers for spinners could create chances.
Expert Predictions: Who Holds the Edge?
- Former England captain Michael Vaughan: “If England gets Rahul early, it’s game over.”
- Sunil Gavaskar: “India’s middle order has the experience to chase this down.”
- Stats Check: Teams batting fourth at Lord’s have won only 32% of Tests when chasing 150+.
FAQs
India is 58/4, needing 135 more runs to win on Day 5.
England requires 6 wickets to clinch the match.
KL Rahul (33*) is the anchor. Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja follow.
India: Washington Sundar (4/52).
England: Brydon Carse (2/15), Jofra Archer (1/18).
Historical Context: Why This Test Matters
- First Indian win at Lord’s since 2021? – A chance to rewrite history.
- Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy – Adds prestige to this rivalry.
- Series Impact – India leads 1-0; a win here seals the series.
Final Verdict: Who Will Win?
The IND vs ENG Test Day 5 showdown boils down to one session. If India survives the first hour without losing Rahul, they’ll likely chase it down. If England strikes early, the hosts will level the series.
Prediction: India wins by 3 wickets (KL Rahul to score 70+).
Don’t Miss the Action
Tune in for what could be one of the greatest Test finishes ever. Will India conquer the Lord’s, or will England defend their fortress?
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My name is Krishanu Das the founder of the Sports Dribble.
I am Accountant by profession but a Sports Blogger by passion.
I am passionate about sharing my all knowledge and experiences of sports, with my readers and every sports enthusiast.
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