New Delhi, July 15 (NationPress) - In spite of India's 22-run loss at Lord's, former Indian captain Anil Kumble has described the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy as a remarkable showcase for Test cricket, with India now behind 1-2 in the five-match series.

India made an impressive recovery in the second Test, bouncing back from a five-wicket loss in the series opener at Leeds. With a disciplined bowling display and enhanced fielding, the visitors managed to dismiss England for 271 on the final day, securing a notable win with over a session remaining.

However, the home team clinched a nail-biting 22-run victory on the last day of the third Test at Lord's, taking a 2-1 lead in the five-Test Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy on Monday.

"This series has been a fantastic advertisement for Test cricket. Each of the three Tests has been intensely competitive, with both teams displaying remarkable resilience. While the scoreboard indicates a 2-1 advantage for England, the sessions have been closely matched. India can enter the next two Tests with confidence, having bounced back from a defeat in the first Test,” Kumble noted.

“This match hinged on critical moments—such as Pant's run-out before lunch, the extras conceded, and allowing Jamie Smith and Brydon Carse to score too freely. These pivotal instances will need to be seized by India in the upcoming game if they aspire to level the series,” Kumble mentioned during an interview on JioHostar.

The defeat at Lord's marks India's fourth narrowest loss in Test history. Kumble recalled his own experience of a narrow loss, having been part of India’s closest defeat by 12 runs against Pakistan in Chennai in 1999, and he felt a sense of déjà vu.

"I was reminded of that particular Test where we fell short by 12 runs against Pakistan. Losing by just 22 runs here had a similar feel. Jadeja was left stranded, and he aimed to bring India close to victory. Nonetheless, England remained focused. The previous over from Jofra Archer certainly unsettled Siraj,” he remarked.

“It wasn't that he intended to take the bowler on, but the introduction of a silly point increased the pressure. It was an excellent opportunity for India to secure a historic victory. Yet, despite the 22-run loss, India has many positives to reflect on,” he concluded.