India and England are all set for the third Test of the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series, starting July 10 at Lord’s. With the series tied 1-1, both teams will look to make subtle adjustments while sticking with core players. India are expected to stick with their opening pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul. Jaiswal has impressed with form and intent, while Rahul brings calm experience. Despite underwhelming outings, Karun Nair is likely to hold on to the No.3 spot. Captain Shubman Gill, fresh from a double hundred and another century at Edgbaston, will lead from No.4. Rishabh Pant continues as vice-captain and wicketkeeper at No.5, having been instrumental with the bat so far. Ravindra Jadeja brings balance at No.6 with his all-round abilities. At No.7, Washington Sundar is preferred for his handy batting and off-spin. Nitish Reddy retains his spot for depth, though he’s yet to fire.
Jasprit Bumrah returns to the XI after a rest, replacing Prasidh Krishna. Akash Deep, who delivered a memorable 10-wicket haul in the second Test, keeps his place. Mohammed Siraj completes the pace trio.India Probable XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Karun Nair, Shubman Gill (C), Rishabh Pant (VC & wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Nitish Reddy, Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj
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England will persist with Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett at the top, even as Crawley’s place remains under scrutiny. Ollie Pope, Joe Root, and Harry Brook make up a solid middle order. Captain Ben Stokes will aim to inspire with both bat and ball, while Jamie Smith keeps the gloves.
Shoaib Bashir stays in as the lone frontline spinner with Root in support. In the pace attack, Brydon Carse is likely to miss out due to a toe injury, and Josh Tongue may be rested. Gus Atkinson and Jofra Archer are expected to be drafted in.England Probable XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (C), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir With both teams eyeing a crucial lead in the series, the Lord’s Test promises another fierce battle between bat and ball.
