Day 3 of the third Test between India and England at Lord’s witnessed a dramatic turn of events as Ravindra Jadeja unleashed a powerful shot that struck young English spinner Shoaib Bashir, forcing him off the field with a suspected hand injury. The incident occurred in the 78th over of India’s innings. Jadeja, always proactive against spin, danced down the track and hammered a length delivery straight back at Bashir.
The 21-year-old showed commendable reflexes, sticking out his hand in an attempt to grab the catch, but the ball ricocheted off his boots and towards mid-on. Bashir was seen wincing in pain and left the field immediately for medical attention, leaving England to complete the over with Joe Root.
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Bashir has struggled with form throughout the series, and this injury could further dent England’s spin options as they try to claw their way back into the match. The seriousness of his injury is yet to be confirmed, but the team management will be hoping it’s not a dislocation.
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Reacting to the ongoing match conditions, former India head coach Ravi Shastri voiced his concerns about the pitch and the Dukes ball. Speaking on Sky Sports, Shastri said, “You cannot play Test cricket on pitches like this, you’re going to lose the crowd. A lively surface and a good ball are essential to maintain interest and quality in Test cricket. These delays just aren’t helping the game.”
Shastri also lauded England captain Ben Stokes for his sensational direct hit that ran out Rishabh Pant just before lunch. “It was phenomenal from Stokes. His awareness and execution were outstanding. That moment has opened a window for England to bounce back.”
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He concluded by emphasising the psychological edge gained by that wicket, stating, “If Pant had survived that session, India would’ve gone in with all the momentum. Now, England has a spark to work with. KL Rahul has to anchor India from here.”
With England desperately looking for a breakthrough and India still trailing, the injury to Bashir and Pant’s run-out have added further intrigue to an already tense Lord’s Test.
