India is gearing up for the 3rd Test against England at Lord’s, with key pacer Jasprit Bumrah rejoining the squad and England welcoming back Jofra Archer after a long absence.
India’s Strong Momentum
The Indian team arrives at Lord’s with immense confidence, fresh off a commanding 336-run victory over England in the previous Test at Edgbaston. This dominant performance showcased their strength, even without their star pacer. India will be eager to maintain their winning momentum and push for another series-defining performance.
Bumrah’s Return Bolsters Indian Pace Attack
A significant boost for India comes with the return of ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who is expected to slot into the playing eleven. He will likely replace Prasidh Krishna, enhancing the team’s already potent bowling unit. With a hint of green expected on the Lord’s pitch, the formidable trio of Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash Deep is poised to cause considerable trouble for England’s batters.
England’s Hopes and Archer’s Comeback
England will be looking to bounce back on their home ground at Lord’s, a pitch that might be more to their liking compared to the “subcontinental” conditions at Edgbaston. The biggest news for the hosts is the highly anticipated return of speedster Jofra Archer. This marks his first Test match in over four years, and his performance will be critical to England’s chances.
Predicted Playing Elevens
For India, the likely XI includes Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Karun Nair, and captain Shubman Gill. Rishabh Pant will take on wicketkeeping duties, while Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Reddy contribute with both bat and ball. The bowling attack is set to feature Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep, and Mohammed Siraj.
England’s predicted lineup sees Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett opening, followed by Ollie Pope, Joe Root, and Harry Brook. Ben Stokes will captain the side, with Jamie Smith behind the stumps. The bowling unit is expected to comprise Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, and Shoaib Bashir.
Key Takeaways
- Jasprit Bumrah returns for India, significantly strengthening their pace attack.
- Jofra Archer makes his much-awaited Test comeback for England after four years.
- India carries strong momentum into the match after their massive win in the previous Test.
- The Lord’s pitch is expected to offer assistance to fast bowlers.
Full Squads
India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Karun Nair, Shubman Gill(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Dhruv Jurel, Sai Sudharsan, Arshdeep Singh, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav.
England: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes(c), Jamie Smith(w), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue, Sam James Cook, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell.
The stage is set for an exciting encounter at Lord’s, promising another thrilling chapter in the India-England Test series.
