Tempers flared once again at Lord’s on Day 4 of the third Test as Ben Stokes took a pointed dig at KL Rahul, offering him a slow, sarcastic clap late in the final session. It was a direct response to Indian skipper Shubman Gill’s similar gesture towards Zak Crawley on Saturday, when England appeared to deliberately delay the final over of Day 3. This time, India were on the clock, and it was their turn to eat up time. As Akash Deep was receiving strapping on his right leg with only a couple of overs left in the day, England players appeared visibly frustrated. Sensing déjà vu, Stokes walked over to Rahul and clapped mockingly, making it clear he hadn’t forgotten what happened the previous evening. Back then, Gill had shouted angrily at Crawley for time-wasting and sarcastically applauded him in full view of the umpires. This brewing needle between the sides has added an extra layer to what is already a gripping Test match. At stumps on Day 4, India were 58 for 4 chasing 193. They had just lost Akash Deep, who was cleaned up by Stokes on the last ball of the day, bringing the crowd to its feet and England firmly back in charge.
Poll
Which team do you think will secure victory on Day 5?
Earlier in the day, India had bowled England out for 192, with Washington Sundar taking 4 for 22 in a terrific spell. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj also made the most of a spicy surface. With 135 runs needed by India and England requiring six wickets, Day 5 is set up beautifully. But beyond the runs and dismissals, this Test has also become a fierce emotional battle — and it’s far from over.
