With Jasprit Bumrah confirmed to return and Joe Root eyeing a resurgence, the third Test at Lord’s promises a high-voltage battle between two modern-day cricketing giants.
London [UK], July 9:
The third Test between India and England at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground is shaping up to be more than just another chapter in the ongoing five-match series—it’s the latest round in a growing rivalry between India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and England’s batting mainstay Joe Root.
With the series now level at 1-1, following India’s historic 336-run victory at Edgbaston, momentum is firmly in the visitors’ corner. Yet, the Bumrah vs Root clash adds another electrifying dimension to what’s already a high-stakes match at the ‘Home of Cricket’.
Bumrah Returns, Rivalry Reignites
After sitting out the second Test due to workload management, Jasprit Bumrah is all set to return to India’s playing XI. His absence was expertly covered by Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep, who stepped up to silence the critics and skittle England. However, skipper Shubman Gill has confirmed that Bumrah will lead the attack once again at Lord’s—just in time for his face-off with Joe Root.
In the first Test at Leeds, Bumrah bowled 44 overs, claiming a five-wicket haul in the first innings, including that of Root. While he went wicketless in the second innings, his control and pressure remained unmatched.
Root vs Bumrah: By the Numbers
Despite his stature, Joe Root has found Bumrah to be a formidable opponent. In 26 career face-offs, Bumrah has dismissed Root 10 times, holding him to an average of just 29.60. Root has managed 296 runs off 584 deliveries against Bumrah, with 37 boundaries and a modest strike rate just above 50.
Still, the English batter has an exceptional track record at Lord’s, which could tip the scales. In 22 Tests and 40 innings at the venue, Root is England’s top scorer with 2,022 runs at an average of 54.64, including seven centuries and seven fifties. His best at Lord’s? A commanding 254 not out.
In contrast, Bumrah’s only Test at Lord’s came during India’s famous 2021 win under Virat Kohli, where he claimed three crucial wickets and bowled with signature fire.
What to Expect at Lord’s?
The stage is set for a captivating contest. Will it be another vintage Root masterclass at Lord’s? Or will Bumrah unleash a fiery spell to reclaim dominance in their duel? Cricket fans might just be treated to both.
One thing is certain: when these two modern legends collide on July 10, it will be a defining battle within the broader war for the series lead. All eyes will be on Root’s technique and Bumrah’s accuracy—a duel that promises to light up the grand stage at Lord’s.