Cricket fans were treated to an edge-of-the-seat spectacle as England pulled off a dramatic 22-run win over India in the third Test of the five-match series at Lord’s. The contest, played over five days of riveting action, saw both teams seize control at various stages before England emerged victorious in a tense finish on Day 5.

Chasing 193 for victory, India were in with a chance thanks to a fighting half-century from Ravindra Jadaja (61*), who ran out of partners as the lower order tried to battle through. Jasprit bumrah and Mohammed Siraj showed resilience at the end, but it wasn’t enough as England’s bowlers held their nerve in the dying moments of the match. The narrow win handed England a 2-1 lead in the series and left India to rue missed opportunities.

Herschelle Gibbs points out the reason behind India’s heartbreaking defeat in Lord’s

As reactions poured in after the gripping contest, former South Africa cricketer Herschelle Gibbs offered a sharp take on what cost India the match. Sharing his view on social media, Gibbs’ comment referred to India’s approach in the final innings, where the batters seemed tentative at key moments. With the pitch still playable and wickets in hand, India were positioned to chase down the target but failed to shift gears when it mattered. Many fans and analysts echoed Gibbs’ sentiment, suggesting India missed a golden chance by not showing enough attacking intent during crucial phases of the chase.

“Came close in the end but lack of intent cost India the game #INDvsEND,” Gibbs wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Also SEE: ENG vs IND: England players’ heartening gesture for Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Siraj after Lord’s heartbreak

England take 2-1 lead in the exciting series

With this victory, England have taken a 2-1 lead in the series, putting them in a commanding position heading into the final two Tests. After losing the second Test, Ben Stokes and his men bounced back in style at Lord’s, combining disciplined bowling with aggressive fielding to script a memorable win. For India, the road to series victory has become steeper, and they will now need to win both remaining matches to clinch the series.