The third Test of the five-match series between England and India will start on July 10 at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London. With the series finely poised at 1-1, the stakes couldn’t be higher. England stunned India in the opening Test at Headingley with a record-breaking chase of 371 runs, showcasing their fearless brand of cricket. However, India roared back in the second Test at Edgbaston, thrashing the hosts by a whopping 336 runs, thanks to a dominant all-round display.
Now, the focus shifts to Lord’s—often referred to as the ‘Home of Cricket’. The conditions are expected to be more challenging, with the pitch likely to aid seamers early on and gradually become favourable for batting. As anticipation builds among fans, certain players have already grabbed the spotlight with their performances. Here are three key players to watch out for in what promises to be a thrilling third Test.
3 players to watch out for in the Lord’s Test
1) Shubman Gill – The run-machine leading India’s charge
India’s new Test captain, Shubman Gill, has been nothing short of extraordinary in the first two Tests. The stylish right-hander has scored 585 runs in just 2 matches, averaging an astounding 146.25. His scores include three centuries, with a majestic double century (269) being the highlight of India’s crushing win at Edgbaston.
What makes Gill’s form even more impressive is the way he has adapted to the English conditions, often considered the ultimate challenge for subcontinental batters. His calm temperament, elegant strokeplay, and ability to anchor the innings have made him the heartbeat of India’s batting lineup. With England have brought in pace spearhead Jofra Archer, all eyes will be on Gill’s technique and temperament. If he gets going at Lord’s, England’s bowlers could be in for a long and tough outing.
2) Jamie Smith – England’s breakthrough star in the making
At just 24, Jamie Smith has taken the cricketing world by storm. The wicketkeeper-batter, playing his debut series against India, has emerged as England’s most dependable and dynamic batter so far. With 356 runs at an eye-popping average of 178, Smith is currently the second-highest run-scorer in the series—only behind Gill.
His ability to counter-attack and shift momentum has been crucial for England, especially in the middle order. Smith’s fearless batting against top-quality bowlers like Mohammed Siraj and Ravindra Jadeja has drawn praise from all quarters. With India bringing back Jasprit Bumrah, and young pacer Akash Deep looking sharp after bowling brilliance in the 2nd Test, Smith will once again have to rise to the challenge. If he manages to deliver at Lord’s, he could well cement his place as a long-term prospect in England’s red-ball setup.
Also READ: ENG vs IND 2025, 3rd Test: Lord’s Pitch Report and Toss factor
3) Jasprit Bumrah – The spearhead returns to reclaim his throne
India will be buoyed by the return of their pace spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah, who was rested for the second Test. In the series opener, Bumrah bowled with immense control and discipline, conceding runs at just 3.21 runs per over, the best economy rate so far. Despite not picking a truckload of wickets, his presence created pressure and allowed others to capitalise.
Now back for the Lord’s Test, Bumrah will relish the conditions on offer—a lively pitch with help for seamers early on. Known for his pinpoint yorkers, subtle variations, and deceptive pace, Bumrah will be eager to rattle England’s top order. His battle against stalwarts like Joe Root, Ben Stokes, and the in-form Smith could well decide the course of the match. If he finds rhythm early, India could take control of proceedings from day one.
Also READ: ENG vs IND: Here’s how England have fared in Test matches at Lord’s, London
Source link
