India captain Shubman Gill has opened up about the critical moment that shifted the Lord’s Test in England’s favor. Following India’s narrow 22-run defeat, Gill pointed to Rishabh Pant’s run-out in the first innings as the turning point of the match. At the time, Pant was batting well on 74, and KL Rahul was closing in on his century when a miscommunication led to Pant’s dismissal just before lunch on Day 3.
The incident occurred when Pant tried to give Rahul the strike so he could reach his hundred before the break. However, a direct hit from Ben Stokes found Pant short of the crease. He walked off after scoring 74 runs off 112 balls, including eight fours and two sixes. The pair had stitched together a 141-run partnership, giving India strong control. But the run-out opened the door for England’s comeback.
Gill made it clear that Pant made the call for the run and dismissed any notion of personal milestones being the cause. “It was an error in judgment. KL Bhai was at the danger end, and Rishabh made the call. It wasn’t about Rahul’s century. It can happen to any batter,” Gill said.
India Lose Momentum, Pant Expected to Return for 4th Test
After the first innings ended evenly with both teams scoring 387, India took a slight edge. Washington Sundar’s four-wicket haul helped bowl out England for 192 in their second innings. Chasing 193 for victory, India collapsed to 112/8. Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten on 61 and tried to build a late stand with Bumrah and Siraj, but India eventually fell short by 22 runs.
Adding to India’s concerns, Pant also suffered a blow to his hand while collecting a delivery from Jasprit Bumrah. He did not take the field as a wicketkeeper in the remainder of the match. Dhruv Jurel filled in behind the stumps for both innings.
Gill offered a fitness update, reassuring fans that Pant is likely to be available for the next match. “Rishabh went for scans. There is nothing serious. He should be fine for the next Test,” Gill confirmed.
With the five-match series now standing at 2-1 in England’s favor, all eyes are on Manchester as India look to bounce back and level the series in the fourth Test.
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