Day 2 Highlights

Joe Root’s Masterclass

England captain Joe Root stole the show with a sensational 104, marking his 37th Test century. In the process:

• Became the highest run-scorer at Lord’s across all formats (2,526 runs), surpassing Graham Gooch (2,513).
• Achieved 3,000 Test runs against India, the first player to do so.
• Took his 211th outfield catch, overtaking Rahul Dravid’s previous record of 210.

Root’s performance reaffirmed his place as one of the modern Test greats.https://amfarmers.com/

Jasprit Bumrah’s Impact

Making a much-awaited return, Jasprit Bumrah dismantled England’s middle-order, claiming five key wickets, including Root, Ben Stokes, and Chris Woakes. His spell dramatically shifted momentum in India’s favor early in the day.

England’s Lower-Order Resistance

Despite a collapse to 271/7, England’s tail—*Jamie Smith (51) and Brydon Carse (50)**—put together an unbeaten 82-run stand, helping England reach a total of 387.https://www.cricbuzz.com/cricket-match/live-scores

India’s First Innings

India ended Day 2 at 145/3, trailing by 242 runs.

• KL Rahul remained unbeaten with a half-century.
• Other wickets fell to England’s pacers: Gill, Nair, Pant (retired with discomfort), and Jaiswal, who was dismissed by Jofra Archer—marking a successful return after a four-year injury layoff.

Key Talking Points

• England Lead but Still Vulnerable: Despite a first-innings advantage, a strong Indian partnership can shift the momentum.
• Archer’s Return: Jofra Archer made an immediate impact, dismissing Jaiswal in his first over.
• Root’s Form & Fielding: Root continues to excel not only with the bat but also in the field, breaking multiple records.
• Slow Over-Rates: Persistent slow over-rates led to minor delays, affecting the game’s flow and crowd engagement.

What to Expect on Day 3 (July 12, 2025)

• India’s Objective: Consolidate their innings, reduce the deficit, and build a strong foundation for a potential first-innings lead.
• England’s Strategy: Fast bowlers, led by Archer and supported by Bumrah’s form mirror, will aim to challenge India’s top order early.
• Key Battles: The top-order partnership between Rahul, Gill, and Jaiswal will be crucial to India’s recovery.

How to Follow Live

• YouTube: talkSPORT Cricket channel for ball-by-ball commentary.
• UK Broadcast: Sky Sports Main Event & Sky Sports Cricket.
• Live Updates: Available on ESPNcricinfo, Cricbuzz, and Sky Sports live blogs.

Quick Snapshot

This day of Test cricket showcased record-breaking performances, resilience under pressure, and the fine margins that define top-level cricket. Day 3 promises to be equally thrilling, with India aiming to build partnerships and challenge England’s dominance.