Lord’s, London:
In what has already turned into a memorable session for Indian cricket, young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy delivered a sensational burst with the ball to put India in control during the first session of the third Test against England at Lord’s.
After England won the toss and elected to bat under overcast skies, openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett made a steady start, handling the new ball with patience and precision. At 39/0, it seemed like England were laying a solid foundation. But India’s decision to bring in Nitish Kumar Reddy as a first-change bowler proved to be a masterstroke.
Reddy’s Breakthrough Changes Everything
In just his first over, Nitish broke the stand by dismissing Ben Duckett with a delivery that straightened after pitching, catching the edge and carrying to second slip. Just three balls later, Zak Crawley was undone by a fuller ball that moved off the seam and crashed into the stumps. Within the space of four deliveries, England had slumped from 39/0 to 39/2.
By the time lunch was called, England were 83/2, with Joe Root (24)* and Ollie Pope (12)* holding on. Reddy’s figures at the break read: 4 overs, 2 wickets for just 15 runs the standout performance of the session by far.
A good start for India in the first session.#ENGvINDpic.twitter.com/GhF17c5rGT
— CricTracker (@Cricketracker) July 10, 2025
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What Should India Do in the Second Session?
With two top-order wickets already in the bag, India have an opportunity to dominate the middle session. Here’s what they should focus on:
1. Target Root Early
Joe Root is England’s most dependable batter. India should look to challenge his off-stump consistently with Bumrah and Siraj. Mixing lengths and including a short-leg or leg gully can unsettle him.
2. Sustain Pressure with Seam
The conditions are still favourable for seam movement. India must keep rotating the fast bowlers—especially Nitish, whose natural bounce and movement make him a surprise weapon.
3. Use Jadeja or Washington Sundar After 50 Overs
As the ball softens and the pitch wears, left-arm spin could come into play. Jadeja’s accuracy might build dots and invite mistakes from Pope and incoming batters.
4. Set Catching Fields Early
With Root and Pope looking to rebuild, India should keep at least two slips and a short cover in place. A backward short leg or leg slip could tempt Pope into errors with flicks.
5. Stay Patient, Don’t Over-Attack
The middle order could look to counterattack. India must maintain discipline with line and length, avoid leaking boundaries, and force England to make the mistakes.
Nitish Kumar Reddy’s twin strikes have not just broken England’s rhythm but have also injected energy into India’s bowling unit. If India can grab one more wicket early in the second session, they could put England under serious pressure before tea.
