India won the second Test at Edgbaston as its pace bowling partnership ripped apart England’s batting lineup. Mohammed Siraj set the tone in the first innings with his aggressive and disciplined bowling, while Akash Deep made a big statement in the second innings with a spectacular six-wicket haul. Their impressive contributions have almost sealed their places for the third Test at Lord’s. With Jasprit Bumrah back to full fitness, he is likely to return to the playing XI, probably at the expense of Prasidh Krishna to further tighten India’s already strong pace attack.
ENG Vs IND, 3rd Test: Pitch Report
The Lord’s offer for this Test has been prepared with an incline of green, providing sufficient grass cover. It is likely to yield plenty of seam and swing action, especially on the first two days. Traditionally, Lord’s favors fast bowlers early, particularly with the overhead weather in London commonly favorable to traditional swing. The slope of the ground, which is a feature unique to Lord’s, also makes things difficult for the batters as it induces natural movement even without ostentatious action.
As the game goes on, the pitch will tend to rise slightly and ease batting from Day 3 and beyond. Late Day 4 and Day 5 could see cracks opening up, presenting some uneven bounce and introducing spinners though minimally.
Also Read: ENG Vs IND: Jasprit Bumrah To Play Lords Test – Who’ll Get Dropped Akashdeep Or Prasidh Krishna?
ENG Vs IND, 3rd Test: Toss Strategy
Winning the toss at Lord’s will leave captains with a difficult choice, but conditions point towards bowling first being the better option. The grass present and predicted early movement should enable fast bowlers to make an early impact and apply pressure on the opposition.
Ben Stokes has already expressed his liking for livelier pitches, and India’s in-form pace battery strengthened by Jasprit Bumrah’s comeback will also enjoy bowling on a brand new, green wicket.
But captains would also need to account for the risk of collapse in case the pitch behaves more bowler-friendly than anticipated. Batting sides will have to endure the first session and look for a steady, slow start instead of rapid runs.
