India Takes 96-Run Lead Against England After Day 3 at Headingley

LEEDS, England (AP) — India has established a commanding 96-run lead over England after three days of competitive play in the first Test at Headingley, with the match finely poised as it heads into the final stages. After bowling out England for 465 runs, India secured a narrow six-run lead in the first innings, and as play concluded early due to rain, they stood at 90 for two in their second innings.

India's opener, Lokesh Rahul, played a pivotal role, remaining not out on 47 alongside captain Shubman Gill, who contributed 6 runs. The day’s play saw England’s Harry Brook shine with the bat, scoring a near-century of 99 runs before being dismissed, highlighting the competitive nature of the match.

Brook's innings was integral to England’s progress, as he formed critical partnerships, including a 51-run stand with Ben Stokes, a 73-run partnership with Jamie Smith, and a further 49 runs with Chris Woakes. However, his dismissal at a crucial moment, caught in the deep, shifted the momentum back in India’s favor. England's innings saw them trailing by 73 runs at the point of his dismissal, with India looking to capitalize on their newfound advantage.

Despite their efforts, England managed to extend their total with a late flurry from Woakes and No. 9 batter Brydon Carse, who added 55 runs off just 44 balls. Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who took two wickets towards the end, ended the innings with figures of 5 for 83, tying Kapil Dev's record of 12 five-wicket hauls away from home.

Reflecting on the match, Bumrah stated, “The game is in the balance. We have to bat well. The wicket is a little two-paced so it will be an interesting game to come.”

During England’s innings, Brook displayed remarkable form and resilience, having faced numerous close calls, including being dropped twice. He was initially dismissed for a duck in Saturday’s play, but a no-ball reprieve allowed him to capitalize, showcasing his talent and fortitude as he reached his 20th fifty-plus score in just 26 Tests.

India’s bowlers, particularly Bumrah, struggled with some inconsistency, with Siraj and Prasidh Krishna also contributing to the wicket tally but with higher economy rates. The day saw England scoring at an impressive rate of 4.9 runs per over, indicating their intent to dominate the proceedings.

As India began their second innings, they encountered challenging conditions. Rain interrupted play, forcing the players off the field, but Rahul and Sai Sudharsan managed to navigate through the difficult spells effectively. Sudharsan was fortunate to be dropped early in his innings, eventually scoring 30 runs before being dismissed.

Looking ahead, England’s Ollie Pope emphasized the importance of breaking through Rahul’s solid form, stating, “The way Rahul played tonight, getting him out tomorrow is going to be crucial.” With the match finely balanced and both teams vying for supremacy, the final days promise to deliver intense cricketing action as India seeks to consolidate their lead while England looks to mount a spirited comeback.