On July 15th, cricket fans around the world witnessed one of the most dramatic Test matches in recent memory. Played at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, the 3rd Test between India and England came down to the wire—and England won by just 22 runs after five days of intense, emotional, and exhausting cricket.
This match had everything: stunning centuries, game-changing spells, pressure, drama, and raw emotion. But above all, it had heart.
A Neck-to-Neck Battle from the Start
Both teams scored 387 runs in their first innings. Joe Root’s classy century (104) and KL Rahul’s fighting ton (100) kept the game level. Bumrah grabbed a five-wicket haul, while Woakes chipped in with three for England.
But it was the second innings where the game truly turned into a battle of nerves.
England managed only 192 runs, with Root again top scoring (40). India had to chase 193 to win. It seemed very possible… until Ben Stokes and his warriors decided to script something unforgettable.
Stokes: The Warrior Who Refused to Give Up
Six years ago, on the same date and same ground, Ben Stokes had helped England win the World Cup. On this anniversary, he wasn’t going to let them lose.
Even when his body screamed for rest, Stokes bowled marathon spells—9.2 overs straight, then 10 more. He ignored the pain, the heat, and fatigue. He was on a mission. And no one dared to stop him.
India, needing 135 runs on the final day, were thrown into fire by England’s bowlers.
Jadeja Stands Tall, But It’s Not Enough
Ravindra Jadeja, India's rock, was calm under pressure. With wickets falling around him, he held one end, scoring another brilliant half-century. Even when Mohammed Siraj sprinted off the field for a bathroom break, Jadeja stayed focused.
He nearly took India to a famous win. But cricket, as always, had its twist.
Archer’s Comeback, Woakes’ Magic, and the Final Blow
Jofra Archer, playing his first Test in 4 years, brought fire. After being smashed by Pant for a one-handed four, he came back even harder—and bowled him out. His celebration? Loud, passionate, and personal.
Then came Chris Woakes, England’s silent match-winner. With the game slipping away, he struck at the perfect time, removing Nitish Reddy after a long resistance. The crowd at Lord’s erupted.
And then, the final blow. Bumrah, who had held firm for 53 balls, tried to hook a short delivery from Stokes… but it went high. Caught. Gone. India was all out for 170.
England had done it.
The Closest Finish at Lord’s
This was the closest Test victory ever at Lord’s. Only 22 runs separated triumph and heartbreak. Shoaib Bashir, who took the final wicket, jumped with joy. Mohammed Siraj looked crushed.
For England, this was more than a win—it was a statement. For India, it was a missed opportunity but also a sign of their fighting spirit.
Cricket at Its Finest
This Test match reminded everyone why Test cricket is still the purest form of the game. It had:
-
Grit from Stokes
-
Elegance from Root and Rahul
-
Fire from Archer
-
Calmness from Jadeja
-
Drama from every session
Lord’s, on July 14 and 15, became a theatre of emotions once again.
Final Scorecard Summary
-
England 1st Innings: 387 (Root 104, Bumrah 5-74)
-
India 1st Innings: 387 (Rahul 100, Woakes 3-84)
-
England 2nd Innings: 192 (Root 40, Washington 4-22)
-
India 2nd Innings: 170 (Jadeja 61*, Stokes 3-48, Archer 3-55)
-
Result: England won by 22 runs
