3 reasons why India lost 3rd Test

India fell agonisingly short in the third Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at Lord’s, losing to England by a narrow margin of 22 runs. Despite a spirited fightback from Ravindra Jadeja and the lower order, India could not chase down the target of 193 on a tricky fifth-day pitch. The loss gave England a 2-1 lead in the series and exposed several areas where India faltered. Here are three key reasons why India lost the third Test.

Excessive extras proved costly

One of the major reasons behind India’s defeat was the number of extras conceded by their bowlers. Across both innings, India gave away a total of 63 extras, 31 in the first innings and 32 in the second. These additional runs provided a significant cushion for England in what turned out to be a low-scoring contest. In a match where the target was under 200, giving over 60 runs in extras made a massive difference. This not only inflated England’s totals but also put additional pressure on India’s batters during the chase.

Top-order collapse in the second innings

India were chasing 193 for victory on a worn-out Lord’s pitch and needed a solid foundation from their top order. However, the batting lineup crumbled under pressure. The opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and Karun Nair departed cheaply after playing rash shots, exposing the middle order early. Although KL Rahul showed some fight with 39, and Rishabh Pant fell cheaply to Archer, both fell at crucial moments. With wickets falling regularly, it was left to Jadeja, who fought valiantly with the lower-order batters. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj showed grit but could not see India home.

Relentless pressure from England’s pacers

England’s pace attack, led by Stokes and Archer, was outstanding in the final innings. Stokes returned with figures of 3 for 48, bowling a marathon spell of 19.2 overs, applying constant pressure. Archer, too, was effective with 3 for 55, using the conditions smartly. The English bowlers exploited the variable bounce and deteriorating surface brilliantly, making scoring difficult. Stokes’ leadership and field placements ensured that India never felt settled which led to key breakthroughs at regular intervals.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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