Following a tentative beginning to the series, Team India bounced back in style, drawing the five-match series 1-1 with a commanding performance in the second Test at Edgbaston. A breathtaking double century from captain Shubman Gill and debutant glory by seamer Akash Deep, who took ten wickets in the match, silenced the naysayers and reignited India’s campaign in England.
With the tide now strongly in their direction, India travel to the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground seeking to take their revival further. The pitch should provide something for the seamers, and India’s youth-plus-experience mix may be the key. Five Indian players worth monitoring when the third Test commences are:
Shubman Gill
Gill has led from the front with aplomb and intent. His stunning innings of 269 and 161 in the second Test weren’t merely record-breaking, they were match-winning. His serenely confident presence at the crease and calm leadership will again be pivotal as India look to take the series lead at the Home of Cricket.
Yashasvi Jaiswal
The left-handed opener has been fearless and flamboyant, giving India explosive starts. With two double hundreds against England already in 2024 and a sparkling century at Leeds, Jaiswal’s aggressive style could be key in neutralising the early threat from England’s pace attack on a green wicket.
KL Rahul
A calm head in the middle order, Rahul’s know-how in English conditions provides balance to the batting line-up. His matured hundred at Headingley in the first part of the series was a reminder of his temperament and his capability to hold innings together under stress something India might need once again at Lord’s.
Also Read: ENG Vs IND 3rd Test: Shubman Gill On The Verge Of Joining Elite Club If India Wins At Lord’s
Akash Deep
The young pacer was also one of the top performers at Edgbaston, impressing with a ten-wicket match in his very first Test. With the surface likely to swing at Lord’s, Akash Deep’s own skill at making the most of the conditions could again prove troublesome for England’s batting unit.
Jasprit Bumrah
Returning to the XI after resting for the second Test, Bumrah’s return adds experience and bite to India’s pace attack. His accuracy, sharpness of pace, and ability to pick up crucial wickets make him the leader of India’s bowling attack, particularly on a pitch likely to provide bounce and movement.
With the series evenly balanced and odds at Lord’s set to favour bowlers, India’s main players will again be required to rise to the occasion. Winning here would not only provide them with a 2-1 advantage, it would also bring Shubman Gill nearer to becoming a member of an exclusive list of Indian captains who have won at Lord’s.
