London | July 27, 2025:
India seized control of the Test series against England with a thrilling four-wicket victory in the fourth Test at Lord’s, taking a decisive 2–1 lead in the five-match series. Spinners delivered once again on the storied ground, with Ravichandran Ashwin chief among them, starring in a gripping final-day chase.
👊 England Falters on Final Day
Resuming at 192/4 chasing a tricky 287-run target, India’s tailender struggle seemed likely to unravel their pursuit. But a masterful display of spin bowling from Ashwin, supported by brilliant catches in the field, choked England’s lower order. England collapsed from 220/7 to 256 all out.
Ashwin claimed a gritty 5 for 68, expertly exploiting cracks in the pitch and turning the game back in India’s favor. His spell proved timely and effective, especially as England tried to push for a draw.
⚔️ India’s Nerve-Wrenching Chase
Needing 256 on a wearing Lord’s strip, India began their chase in calm fashion. Openers navigated early overs with caution and intent. Key contributors included Shubman Gill and Cheteshwar Pujara, who steadied the innings amid good English seam movement.
The match reached a tense denouement at 240/6, with just eight runs needed and veteran Ravindra Jadeja and fast bowler Mohammed Shami at the crease. Demonstrating grit and experience, Jadeja calmly struck a four through midwicket to seal the win — completing the chase inside the final hour of play.
🌟 Star Performers for India
- Ravichandran Ashwin: A five-wicket haul turned the tide in India’s favor on Day 5.
- Ravindra Jadeja: A composed unbeaten 27* guided the final stages of the chase.
- Shubman Gill: A well-paced fifty that held the innings steady.
Fieldsmen also came to the forefront—most notably substituting in for a dropped chance—but crucial catches helped swing momentum toward India.
🎯 England’s Missed Moments
England’s standout bowlers, including Jack Leach and fast duo Ollie Robinson and Mark Wood, showed character early on. But fielding lapses and Ashwin’s variation cost them momentum. Their batting let them down in critical spells, especially during India’s fightback.
🏆 What This Means for the Series
India’s win at Lord’s puts them within touching distance of regaining the series. Heading into the fifth and final Test, England must win to keep their hopes alive, while India can now aim to wrap up the series or shift focus to preserving their lead.
