Can Shardul Thakur's Double-Strike Save India After Duckett's Masterclass?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In an electrifying encounter, India made a remarkable comeback thanks to Shardul Thakur's pivotal double strike, turning the tide against England's strong batting. As the match hangs in balance, will India secure victory or will England chase down the record target? Stay tuned for a thrilling finale!
Key Takeaways
- Shardul Thakur's
- Ben Duckett's century set a strong foundation for England.
- India's bowlers tightened their grip during critical moments.
- The match remains finely poised with rain affecting play.
- Team strategies are crucial as the final moments approach.
Leeds, June 24 (NationPress) India fought back into the match with a crucial double strike from Shardul Thakur, right when England appeared to be comfortably on course for their record target of 371 during the Tea break on Day 5 of the thrilling first Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at Headingley on Tuesday.
With Shardul (2-28) and Prasidh Krishna (2-69) landing significant blows, England stood at 269/4, needing 102 more runs with six wickets still intact, as dark clouds and intermittent rain forced an early tea break on this final day.
The day began positively for the hosts, as Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley extended their opening partnership to an impressive 188 runs, marking the highest ever fourth-innings stand for England at this venue. Duckett was the standout performer, racing to his sixth Test century — and his first in the second innings — in just 121 balls, despite a dropped catch on 97 by Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Crawley appeared comfortable as well, driving Prasidh Krishna to the boundary to push England past the 200-run mark. However, Krishna struck back immediately, finding Crawley's edge with a delivery that veered away, caught cleanly by KL Rahul at slip, ending the 188-run partnership. The double blow continued as Krishna then bowled Ollie Pope for just 8 runs.
Duckett, maintaining the pressure, executed a brilliant reverse slap for six off Ravindra Jadeja. Yet, the match shifted again when Shardul Thakur, who had been largely ineffective until now, was reintroduced into the attack by captain Shubman Gill.
He dismissed Duckett for a well-played 149 with a loose half-volley that was driven directly to substitute Nitish Kumar Reddy at extra cover. Thakur then bowled Harry Brook for a golden duck, providing India with a much-needed chance.
Ben Stokes and Joe Root remained cautious heading into the break, as the Indian bowlers maintained their pressure. A failed review by India against Stokes for a short-leg catch added to the match’s tension. With 102 runs still to chase and rain looming, the final session hangs in a delicate balance — an exhilarating finish is on the horizon.
Brief scores:
India 471 and 364 lead England 465 and 269/4 in 58.3 overs (Joe Root 14 not out, Ben Stokes 13 not out; Shardul Thakur 2-28, Prasidh Krishna 2-69) by 102 runs
Point of View
It is crucial to present an unbiased view of the ongoing Test match. The remarkable performance of Shardul Thakur has certainly shifted the dynamics. However, both teams are showcasing tremendous skill and determination, making this match a testament to the competitive spirit of cricket.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What impact did Shardul Thakur have on the Test match?
Shardul Thakur's double strike was pivotal, dismissing key players and changing the match's momentum.
What was Ben Duckett's contribution to the match?
Ben Duckett scored a brilliant 149 runs, significantly contributing to England's innings.
How is the weather affecting the match?
Intermittent rain and dark clouds have led to breaks in play, adding tension to the match.
