India Aims for Early Breakthrough Against England in Third Test
First Session Highlights at Lord's
London [UK], July 10: In a balanced opening session of the third Test at Lord's, former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble expressed that India would achieve a significant milestone if they manage to dismiss England for under 300 runs.
The pivotal moment came when Nitish Kumar Reddy claimed the wickets of openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett shortly after the drinks break, setting the tone for the session. Joe Root and Ollie Pope then steadied the innings, ensuring England went into Lunch without further losses.
During a discussion on 'Match Centre Live' at JioHotstar, Kumble highlighted Nitish's impressive performance, attributing it to his 'length and high-arm action.' He also warned that Jofra Archer's return could pose a significant threat on this pitch.
Kumble noted, 'Nitish displayed signs of what Archer could bring. The slope here aids in moving the ball away from left-handers, and unfortunately, Duckett fell victim to that twice. Crawley's dismissal was a beauty; he got the length and line spot on, moving just enough off the pitch to find the edge. On this pitch, patience is key; if India can bowl England out for under 300, it will be considered a job well done.'
He remarked that both teams would likely be satisfied with the session's outcome, although India missed an opportunity to secure another wicket after two quick dismissals.
Interestingly, the breakthroughs came not from Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep, or Mohammed Siraj, but from Nitish Kumar Reddy, who took two crucial wickets. Kumble emphasized the importance of slip fielding, noting that the bounce and pace have been inconsistent, requiring India to remain sharp in the field.
At the conclusion of the first session, England stood at 83/2, with Joe Root (24*) and Ollie Pope (12*) not out, having formed a partnership of 39 runs.
After winning the toss and opting to bat first, England's openers, Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, were cautious against the aggressive bowling of Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep, who troubled them several times on a pitch with minimal grass and initial carry.
After scoring just 15 runs in the first seven overs, Crawley broke the shackles in the eighth over against Akash, hitting three boundaries, including one through covers and another edged over the slip cordon.
By the end of 13 overs, England had reached 35/0, with Duckett (19*) and Crawley (18*) still at the crease, having navigated the first hour without significant trouble.
All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy was introduced immediately after the drinks break, and his inclusion proved fruitful as he dismissed both Duckett and Crawley, caught by wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant. Duckett returned for a 40-ball 23, while Crawley scored 18 off 43 balls, leaving England in a precarious position at 44/2.
Duckett was dismissed while attempting a pull shot, and Crawley's edge was caught by Pant.
Joe Root joined Ollie Pope, and with two boundaries in Mohammed Siraj's 18th over, Root brought up England's 50-run mark in 16.4 overs, showcasing his intent to score big and rectify his previous performances.
Root and Pope ensured that England ended the session without further damage.
Brief Scores: England: 83/2 (Joe Root 24, Ben Duckett 23, Nitish Kumar Reddy 2/15) vs India.