Shami-Bumrah stand gives India momentum

On Aug 16, 2021

A fighting, counter-attacking half-century stand by Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah for the ninth wicket helped India seize momentum against England in the morning session of Day 5 of the Lord’s Test, yesterday.

The duo, with limited batting credentials, calculated their attack and defence well to keep the England pacers at bay against the new ball.

Even as they didn’t throw their bats around blindly, they were quick to pick runs – even if not in the targeted areas on occasions. They did have their share of luck with several swings getting the edge and flying in the gaps.

More significantly though, the partnership allowed India to 286 for eight at lunch, extending the lead to a respectable 259.

The visitors had started the day on a shaky note, losing Rishabh Pant – the only remaining batter – in the third over and being reduced to 194 for seven.

Chief scores

India: 364 and 286/8 at lunch (Ajinkya Rahane 61, Mohammed Shami 52 n.o, Mark Wood 3/51, Ollie Robinson 2/41)

England: 391. (Agencies)