The third Test between India and England at Lord’s opened with a gripping day of cricket, dominated by none other than Joe Root, who remained unbeaten on 99 at stumps. His steady innings helped England reach 251/4 at the close of play, placing the hosts in a strong position as they look to take control of the five-match series.
Joe Root Anchors England’s Innings
Seasoned batter Joe Root once again displayed why he’s considered one of the finest Test players in the modern era. Walking in after England lost a couple of early wickets, Root played with poise, elegance, and patience. From sharp singles to elegant boundaries, Root was in full control throughout the innings.
He found a reliable partner in skipper Ben Stokes, who stood firm on 39* at the close of play. Together, the duo has added an unbeaten partnership of 94 runs for the fifth wicket, frustrating India’s bowlers in the final session of the day.
India Strike Early, But Joe Root Holds Fort
India had their moments on Day 1. Pacer Nitish Kumar Reddy struck early, followed by Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja, who also picked up key wickets during different phases of the game. At one point, England were 157/4 and looked vulnerable. But Joe Root’s calm and methodical approach ensured the innings didn’t collapse.
Root was particularly strong against the spinners, using the sweep shot to great effect, including a well-placed boundary against Ravindra Jadeja to move into the 80s. Even when the ball got older and reverse swing came into play, Root’s composure kept India at bay.
Flying Ants, New Ball, and Missed Opportunities
The day wasn’t without its quirks. A short delay occurred due to a swarm of flying ants, which briefly stopped play. Once things resumed, India tried multiple bowling combinations, including Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, but couldn’t break the Root-Stokes partnership.
India opted for the new ball after 80 overs, hoping it would bring a breakthrough. However, Joe Root continued to frustrate the Indian bowlers with calculated strokes and stonewall defense.
Joe Root’s Class in Numbers
- Score at stumps: 99* (not out)
- Boundaries: 10+ fours, including classy cover drives and sweeps
- Partnership: 94* with Ben Stokes
- Strike Rate: Balanced, rotating strike with occasional boundaries
- Time on crease: Over two sessions of disciplined batting
Root’s innings was not only about survival—it was a tactical masterclass. He read the pitch conditions, adjusted to the bowling changes, and refused to take unnecessary risks.
England Build a Platform for Day 2
At the end of Day 1, England stood at 251/4, with Joe Root just one run away from his 37th Test century. It was a day that belonged to the former England captain, whose presence at the crease gives his team a psychological edge heading into Day 2.
Ben Stokes, though not as fluent as Root, played a crucial supporting role. His innings of 39* helped stabilize the innings after England found themselves in a tricky position earlier in the day.
India’s Bowling: Promise but Lack of Luck
Despite the strong performance from Joe Root, India weren’t completely outplayed. Jasprit Bumrah bowled with his usual fire, and Akash Deep provided good backup support. However, missed opportunities and the inability to capitalize on key moments cost them control in the final session.
Spinner Ravindra Jadeja kept things tight but found it difficult to dismiss a well-set Root. Nitish Kumar Reddy impressed on his Test debut with an early wicket but couldn’t add to his tally.
What to Expect on Day 2
The big question is: Can India remove Joe Root before he scores yet another Test century? If Root continues his innings into the morning session and converts his 99 into a triple-digit score, England could post a first-innings total above 400—putting pressure on India.
India, on the other hand, will rely on early breakthroughs with the second new ball to make a comeback. Much depends on how Bumrah and Siraj perform in the opening overs of Day 2.
Final Word: Joe Root Shows Why He’s a Modern Test Great
Day 1 of the 3rd Test at Lord’s was all about Joe Root. His unbeaten 99 was a blend of textbook technique and mental strength. With the bat in his hand, he anchored England’s innings and kept India’s bowling unit at bay.
As England looks to press forward in this closely contested series, all eyes will be on Root as he returns on Day 2 to complete what could be another memorable century in his illustrious career.
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