According to reports from Headingley, Leeds, the fifth and final day of the 1st Test between India and England has turned into a nail-biting thriller, with both sides chasing victory in the final session under overcast skies and high pressure.
England Chasing 371, India Fighting for Every Wicket
England began Day 5 with determination, confidently chasing the stiff 371-run target set by India. Their opening pair, Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley, came out all guns blazing, building a massive 188-run partnership that placed the hosts firmly in control. Duckett, in particular, was the standout performer, crafting a magnificent 149-run knock the highest ever 4th innings score by any batter against India in Test history.
Crawley, on the other hand, played a more patient innings, reaching his half-century and providing solid support. The pair’s aggressive yet composed approach left India looking for answers as they struggled to break through with the new ball in the morning session.
Rain Drama and Missed Chances
As the tension built, so did the clouds. A spell of rain just after Lunch brought play to a temporary halt, frustrating both teams. The conditions briefly turned gloomy, and India hoped the interruption might break England’s rhythm.
India had their moments a dropped catch by Yashasvi Jaiswal, a missed caught-and-bowled chance by Bumrah, and several near edges that just evaded the slip cordon. The ball was changed late in the session, adding a twist to the contest as Indian bowlers tried to regain some control.
Prasidh and Shardul Ignite a Comeback
The tide finally turned after the rain break. Prasidh Krishna finally broke the opening stand by removing Crawley, and soon followed it up with a stunning reverse-swinger that shattered Ollie Pope’s stumps.
The real spark, though, came from Shardul Thakur, who took two wickets in two deliveries just before Tea removing the dangerous Duckett and then Harry Brook with back-to-back deliveries. His spell brought India roaring back into the game, reducing England to 253/4 in a flash and setting up a thrilling final session.
Root and Stokes Hold the Key
As the final session resumed post-Tea, England still needed over 100 runs to win with six wickets in hand. At the crease were England's two most seasoned campaigners Joe Root and Ben Stokes tasked with steering the chase forward. Root played cautiously, while Stokes struck some boundaries to keep the scoreboard ticking. The outcome of the match now hinges on their partnership.
Meanwhile, India brought back Jasprit Bumrah, who picked up five wickets in the first innings but was yet to strike in the second. Along with Jadeja, Siraj, Prasidh, and Shardul, Bumrah will be India’s go-to bowler as they push for a late collapse and snatch victory.
Score Snapshot (at 60.5 overs)
- England: 275/4
- Target: 371
- Ben Stokes: 18* (26)
- Joe Root: 15* (36)
- Overs Left: Approx. 25–30 (light/weather permitting)
- India Needs: 6 wickets
- England Needs: 96 runs
Final Words: A Test Classic in the Making
With every over, the tension mounts at Headingley. Can England pull off a record-breaking win, or will India stage a thrilling comeback? The match has offered everything — centuries, collapses, missed chances, rain drama, and a thrilling finish in the making. No matter who wins, this match has showcased the pure drama and brilliance of Test cricket at its finest.