Ravi Shastri Analyzes India's Narrow Defeat in Lord's Test

London, Jul 16 (PTI) Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri identified Rishabh Pant's dismissal in the first innings and Karun Nair's wicket in the second as pivotal moments in the third Test at Lord's, which saw England edge past India with a narrow 22-run victory to take a 2-1 series lead in the five-match contest. India, chasing 193, was bowled out for 170.

In an appearance on 'The ICC Review', Shastri pinpointed Pant's run-out dismissal as a significant turning point. He praised England captain Ben Stokes for his "outstanding presence of mind" in executing the run-out on the stroke of lunch on Day 3, a moment Shastri believes shifted momentum to England. "Pant's dismissal was critical because India was in the driver's seat, almost set to gain a lead," Shastri commented.

India started their second innings at a promising 41 for one on the fourth day, with Karun Nair and KL Rahul at the crease. However, Nair's decision to leave a ball from pacer Brydon Carse led to his leg-before dismissal, marking a crucial turning point. "That lapse in concentration by Nair at 40/1 opened the door for England," Shastri remarked, noting how India’s innings dramatically slid to 82 for seven from 42 for two.

Shastri also suggested that the Indian top order needed to display more resilience in their second innings. He observed how tail-enders like Siraj, Bumrah, and Jadeja batted solidly once the ball was older. "It showed the top order required a little more mental toughness on Day 4," he added. "The target was in touching distance at lunch, needing just 82 runs, but a bit more grit would have seen India through."

Despite this setback, Shastri expressed confidence in India's ability to bounce back, lamenting narrowly missed chances. "With a bit more luck, India could easily have been 3-0 up in this series," he opined, recalling a similar tight contest at Lord's in 2021 when roles were reversed, and India emerged victorious.

The former coach acknowledged England's skill, especially praising Stokes' tactical leadership and perseverance. "When England saw the door ajar, they flung it open," said Shastri, lauding Stokes' impactful bowling spells, stating, "Stokes saved his energy for Lord's and his relentless spells on the last day clinched it for England."

As the series progresses to the fourth Test in Manchester on July 23, Shastri speculated on the thrilling potential of the remaining matches, particularly if India manages a comeback. "The series has been compelling, with intense moments unfolding. If India bounces back, the final Test at The Oval promises to be a spectacle," he concluded.

Ben Stokes bowled a remarkable 24 overs, more than any other England bowler, taking three key wickets, including the crucial one of Rahul.

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