LONDON: In a nail-biting finish at Lord’s, England defeated India by 22 runs in the third Test of the five-match series, reigniting memories among Indian fans of the famous 1999 Chennai Test loss to Pakistan.

Played on Monday, the match saw both teams scoring 387 runs in their respective first innings, creating a rare level playing field. In the second innings, England managed 192 runs, setting India a target of 193.

Despite the modest target, India fell short in a tense run chase, adding to their history of close Test defeats. The result gives England a crucial win and adds fresh excitement to the ongoing series.

On the final day, India required 135 more runs for victory with 6 wickets in hand, while England needed those crucial wickets to seal the win. The match reached its crescendo in the final session, with India needing just 23 runs and holding onto their last wicket. However, Indian batter Mohammed Siraj was bowled by English bowler Bashir, handing England a narrow 22-run triumph.

Similarities to the 1999 Chennai Test:England edge India by 22 runs in thrilling Lord’s Test

The manner of India’s defeat at Lord’s, particularly the fall of the final wicket, has drawn striking comparisons to the 1999 Chennai Test. In that match, Pakistani spinner Saqlain Mushtaq dismissed Indian fast bowler Javagal Srinath in a remarkably similar fashion.

Both batters attempted to play defensively against spinners, only for the ball to brush the bat before hitting the stumps, resulting in a bowled dismissal.

Social Media Buzzes with Comparisons:

The uncanny resemblance between the last wickets in the Lord’s and Chennai Tests quickly sparked a flurry of comparisons on social media, with fans and commentators drawing parallels between the two historic, heartbreaking defeats for India.

England Takes Series Lead:

With this hard-fought victory in the third Test, host England has now taken a crucial 2-1 lead in the five-match series, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the contest.