NEW DELHI: India’s narrow 22-run defeat against England in the third Test at Lord’s triggered an outpouring of reactions from cricketing legends and fans alike, who hailed the fighting spirit shown by the trio of Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj. Despite a heartbreaking finish, the Indian team earned praise for pushing the contest to the final session on Day 5 in what was a true Test classic.
In pursuit of a modest target of 193 on a pitch that became increasingly challenging over the last six sessions, India found themselves in deep trouble at 58/4 and later at a dismal 82/7. Just when it looked like a swift collapse was imminent, Jadeja, Bumrah, and Siraj mounted a gritty resistance that reignited hope. The Lord’s crowd, largely English, echoed with chants of “India, India” as the visitors clawed back into the game. However, the valiant effort ultimately fell short as India were bowled out for 170.
Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar summed up the mood of the nation with his emotional tribute:
“So near, yet so far… Jadeja, Bumrah & Siraj fought all the way till the end. Well tried, Team India. England played well to keep the pressure on and produced the result they desired. Congratulations on a hard-fought win.”
Former captain Sourav Ganguly, who famously celebrated on the Lord’s balcony in 2002, expressed disappointment that India let a golden opportunity slip.
“What a Test match… India will leave Lord’s very disappointed. They played so well in all three matches, but are now down 2-1. This was a Test match to be won. Jadeja fought hard and showed 193 was not a big total.”
Yuvraj Singh, known for his own battles under pressure, focused on the character shown by the team.
“Not the result we wanted, but this match will be remembered for the fight we showed. Jadeja and Siraj stood tall in a pressure cooker situation. A performance that demands respect — not just for the skill, but for the mindset!”
Former opener Wasim Jaffer also lauded the resilience of the Indian team:
“Heartbreaking finish but proud of the fight. Take a bow Jadeja, what determination, what patience. What a Test match we’ve had.”
Harbhajan Singh echoed similar sentiments:
“Showed great commitment — Jadeja, Bumrah & Siraj. Wasn’t our day, but heads held high.”
Irfan Pathan, meanwhile, identified the key moments that tilted the balance:
“The fight was there, but England managed to seize the crucial moments.”
The match had swung like a pendulum over the five days. After both teams posted identical first innings totals of 387, it seemed the Test might drift toward a draw. However, the Lord’s surface turned unpredictable, producing an enthralling final act. England were dismissed for 192 in their second innings, giving India a gettable target. But fiery spells from Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer blew early holes in the Indian batting lineup.
Jadeja fought valiantly, scoring an unbeaten 61 while facing 22 overs with Bumrah and another 13 with Siraj. Despite his resistance, India’s lower order couldn’t carry them past the finish line.
With the loss, India now trail 2-1 in the five-match series. The team, though wounded, earned the admiration of fans and legends for their determination in the face of adversity. All eyes will now be on the fourth Test as India look to bounce back and level the series.
