OTD – India pulled off final-day heist to beat England at Lord’s in 2021

On this day in 2021, cricket fans witnessed a breathtaking display of skill and determination as India secured a remarkable victory against England in the second Test at Lord‘s. The match showcased the true essence of Test cricket, with its twists and turns, ultimately culminating in India’s triumph by 151 runs.

The five-match Test series had kicked off in Nottingham, where rain thwarted hopes of a conclusive result. However, the stage was set for a gripping contest at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. The battle was fierce, spanning five days and showcasing thrilling performances from both bat and ball.

In a display of commanding batting, India notched up 364 runs in their first innings, with KL Rahul leading the charge with a remarkable century. Rahul’s masterful 129 off 250 balls laid the foundation, while Rohit Sharma’s elegant 84 off 145 balls provided the necessary impetus. England’s premier pacer, James Anderson, managed to pick up five crucial wickets, showcasing his class and experience.

In response, England posted 391 runs in their first innings, with Joe Root’s sublime knock of 180 runs off 321 balls anchoring their innings. The Indian bowling attack showcased their prowess, with Mohammed Siraj and Ishant Sharma claiming four and three wickets, respectively, keeping the contest evenly poised.

India bowled exceptionally on Day 5 of the game.

As the match progressed into the fourth day, the pendulum swung in favour of the bowlers. India’s second innings proved to be a test of character, with the team managing to post 298/8. A remarkable partnership between the lower-order batters, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah, added an unbeaten 89 runs for the ninth wicket. Shami’s aggressive 56 off 70 balls and Bumrah’s gritty 34 off 64 balls defied England’s bowlers, with Mark Wood taking three wickets for the hosts.

The stage was set for an exhilarating finish on the fifth and final day, as England faced a target of 272 runs. The pressure was on, and India‘s bowling attack rose to the occasion. In a stunning display of seam and swing, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah wreaked havoc on England’s batting lineup. Siraj’s fiery spell earned him four crucial wickets, while Bumrah’s precision and pace accounted for three dismissals.

As the wickets tumbled, England found themselves bundled out for a mere 120 runs, falling short by 151 runs. India’s victory was a testament to their teamwork, skill, and determination, showcasing their ability to excel under pressure. This thrilling victory at Lord’s will be etched in cricketing history as a testament to the spirit of the game, with India’s triumph exemplifying the beauty of Test cricket and the joy it brings to fans around the world.