What happened on Day 1 of England vs India, 3rd Test? All you need to know

The third Test of the ongoing five-match series between England and India began on July 10 at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, with England skipper Ben Stokes winning the toss and opting to bat first. 

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With the series level at 1-1, both teams made strategic changes—India’s only switch from the victorious Edgbaston XI was the return of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah in place of Prasidh Krishna.

England made a steady start to the day, with openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett adding 43 runs for the first wicket under sunny skies. However, it was a smart move by India’s captain Shubman Gill to introduce Nitish Kumar Reddy early in the spell that turned the momentum. 

The young all-rounder struck twice in a single over, dismissing both openers. Crawley edged behind for 18, while Duckett fell for 23—both undone by Nitish’s disciplined line, bounce, and subtle swing.

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After being reduced to 44/2, England recovered well as Ollie Pope and Joe Root stitched together a crucial 109-run partnership for the third wicket. Pope looked in good rhythm until Ravindra Jadeja removed him for 44, thanks to a sharp catch by substitute wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel. 

Root and Stokes will begin proceedings for England on day two

Regular keeper Rishabh Pant had left the field after the 34th over, having sustained a blow on his little finger, and did not return for the remainder of the day. The second session belonged completely to England as Pope and Root navigated the Indian bowlers confidently. 

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Though India remained disciplined with the ball, they struggled to find breakthroughs. Jasprit Bumrah eventually made an impact in the final session, dismissing Harry Brook for just 11 to make it 172/4.

From there, Joe Root and Ben Stokes took control and guided England through to stumps with an unbeaten 79-run stand. Root looked in sublime touch and ended the day on 99*. Stokes played the supporting role, remaining not out on 39. At the close of play, England were 251/4 in 83 overs.

Heading into day two, India will aim for early wickets to prevent England from piling up a big first-innings score. With Root and Stokes settled, the morning session will be crucial for the visitors. If this partnership continues to flourish, England could well post a total that puts them in command.

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