Manic Monday Beckons at Lord’s as England and India Gear Up for a Thrilling Finale

As the third Test between England and India builds towards a dramatic climax, anticipation is at fever pitch ahead of what promises to be a riveting final day at Lord’s. With India needing just 135 runs to take a 2-1 lead in the series, and England hunting six wickets to seize control of the contest, all eyes will be on Monday’s opening hour — one that could swing the balance decisively in either direction.

England assistant coach Marcus Trescothick believes both teams are equally poised and "desperate" to win, adding to the pressure and excitement.

“If I knew who had the edge, I’d probably relax a bit more,” Trescothick said during the post-day-four media interaction. “But both teams are desperate to win. It's going to be amazing. We've seen four fantastic days of cricket already, and now we’re set for a fitting finale.”

Sunday’s action-packed playbook saw fortunes sway dramatically. India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, kept England under tight control early in the day. However, the pendulum swung back in England’s favour as Brydon Carse and Ben Stokes triggered a late collapse, reducing India to 58 for 4 by stumps.

Despite the setback, India remain hopeful. KL Rahul stands firm on 33* and will be the linchpin of India's chase. With Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Washington Sundar still to come, India believe the target is within reach.

Trescothick identified Rahul and Pant as the key threats to England's chances.

“KL’s been classical, old-school Test cricket,” he said. “He leaves the ball well, judges length excellently, and has been consistent throughout the series. If we can get him early, we’ll have a real chance. Pant, too, can be dangerous if he gets going.”

Rahul, fresh off his second century of the series in the first innings, has anchored India’s batting with poise and patience. England, aware of his form and experience, know removing him early could expose India’s lower order.

On the other side, Washington Sundar, who claimed a career-best 4 for 22 on Sunday, remains optimistic. “It would be amazing to win another Test at Lord’s,” he said. “There’s no set approach. We’ll play according to the situation and remain positive.”

The electric atmosphere at Lord’s has amplified the tension, with a full house backing both sides passionately. On Sunday, Indian fans dominated the noise levels, prompting Joe Root to rally the home supporters with hand gestures from the slip cordon.

Trescothick acknowledged the crowd’s influence and expects them to play a part again on Monday.

“It might take a wicket to get the crowd going, but the support has been phenomenal. With a packed house, both sets of fans will make it a special day.”

With just over a session’s worth of runs left and six wickets in hand, India will hope to channel the energy of their famous 2021 Lord’s win, which also concluded in the final hour of day five. England, however, will aim to ride the crowd and early morning conditions to secure a comeback.

Whatever the outcome, Manic Monday promises to deliver yet another unforgettable chapter in this gripping Test series.