India lead England by 37 runs after Day 3 of the 1st Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Test at Headingley. Jasprit Bumrah’s 5-wicket haul, centuries from Gill and Pant, and strong replies from Pope and Brook have set up a thrilling finish as rain and momentum loom large.
In an enthralling contest at Headingley, Leeds, the first Test of the newly inaugurated Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy is shaping into a classic, with both India and England pushing hard for early supremacy in the five-match series. At the end of Day 3, India reached 31 for 1 in their second innings, holding a slim overall lead of 37 runs, setting the stage for a gripping finale.
India’s First Innings Edge
India began Day 3 resuming from an imposing overnight score of 359 for 3, thanks to magnificent centuries from Shubman Gill (147) and Rishabh Pant (134). The pair’s aggressive and mature batting laid the foundation for India’s first-innings total of 471. Gill, displaying exceptional control and shot selection, punished anything short or wide, while Pant played a counterattacking masterclass filled with his trademark flair.
England responded strongly with the bat, scoring 465, just six runs short of India’s total. Ollie Pope anchored the innings with a well-constructed 106, while Harry Brook’s aggressive 99 kept England in touching distance. Brook’s near-century was lauded for its confidence and attacking flair, though he fell just one short, caught at deep fine leg attempting a big hit.
Bumrah Steals the Spotlight
Despite the high scoring, it was Jasprit Bumrah who turned heads with the ball. His phenomenal spell of 5 for 83 – his 14th five-wicket haul in Tests and third in England – was instrumental in restricting England and giving India a slim but crucial lead. Former England cricketer Mark Butcher, speaking on Sky Sports, labelled Bumrah an “absolute champion” for his consistent brilliance.
“Bumrah has been utterly outstanding. Irresistible fast bowling. He is an absolute champion,” said Butcher. Former pacer Stuart Broad echoed the sentiment, praising Bumrah’s ability to swing the ball and deliver “jaffas” throughout the innings.
Bumrah’s latest five-wicket haul also saw him equal Kapil Dev’s record for the most fifers by an Indian bowler in overseas Tests – a significant milestone that further cements his legacy among India’s pace legends.
Former Cricketers Weigh In
The intense nature of the contest drew attention from several former cricketers. Ravi Shastri, former India head coach, summed up the mood of the game aptly: “Game on – and at some pace. Over 900 runs have been scored and we still have a session to go on day three.”
Shastri also singled out Harry Brook’s innings for praise, calling it dazzling and brave. “Brook picks up length so well and plays with audacity. He won’t be too disappointed getting out for 99. On another day, that could’ve been a double ton.”
As the match heads into a crucial phase, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, who posted a 91-run opening stand in the first innings, will be key to India’s hopes. However, in the second innings, Jaiswal fell early, putting the onus on Rahul and the middle order to build a defendable lead.
Mel Jones, former Australia women’s cricketer, highlighted the shift in challenge for India’s young batting line-up. “This will be a whole new challenge. Rahul will be important with his game nous, and Pant can change the tempo in the middle.”
Rain and Momentum Add Intrigue
With rain hovering around Leeds, weather could play a vital role on the final two days. However, both teams seem eager to push for a result rather than settle for a draw. England’s aggressive style under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum, combined with India’s potent pace attack led by Bumrah, hints at more drama to come.
| Also Read: India reach 359/3 as Gill, Jaiswal shine on Day 1 of first test |
The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy’s first Test has already delivered on its promise – high-quality performances, personal milestones, and a fierce contest between two cricketing giants. With two days remaining and the match delicately poised, fans can expect a thrilling finish that could set the tone for the rest of the series.
