The fifth Test between England and India took another dramatic twist as Zak Crawley fell to the final ball of Day 3, handing India the momentum in a match that has swung like a pendulum.
England ended the day on 259-5, still trailing by 205 runs, after a pulsating session that encapsulated the see-saw nature of this enthralling series.
Crawley's Crucial Wicket Tilts Balance
Crawley, who had looked composed in his knock of 73, was undone by a sharp delivery from Jasprit Bumrah just as England appeared to be stabilising their innings. His dismissal sparked wild celebrations among the Indian players, who recognised the psychological importance of breaking through at the day's close.
Series Lives Up to Its Billing
This match has perfectly mirrored the competitive nature of a series that began with fireworks and has maintained its intensity throughout. From Joe Root's early departure to Jonny Bairstow's counter-attacking 38, the day provided no shortage of talking points.
The Dharamsala pitch continues to offer assistance to both seamers and spinners, setting up what promises to be a fascinating fourth day as England battle to stay in contention.
Key Moments That Shaped the Day
- Root's early dismissal for 26 after looking set
- Bairstow's aggressive cameo that shifted momentum
- Bumrah's late strike to remove the dangerous Crawley
- India's disciplined bowling performance throughout the session
With two days remaining, the match hangs in the balance. Can England's lower order dig deep, or will India's varied attack wrap things up quickly to claim series bragging rights?
