Ravindra Jadeja produced a valiant effort on Day 5 of the third Test at Lord’s, showcasing resilience and temperament under immense pressure. On a deteriorating surface and against a fired-up England bowling attack, the all-rounder battled hard to keep India in the hunt. He remained unbeaten on 56 off 150 deliveries — a knock built on patience, determination, and grit — as chaos unfolded around him.Jadeja’s fifty was not just crucial in the context of the match but also historically significant. It marked his fourth consecutive 50-plus score in Test matches in England, placing him alongside some elite names. Only Rishabh Pant, with five successive fifties between 2021 and 2025, has a longer such streak for India. Jadeja now equals Sourav Ganguly’s record of four in a row, set during the 2002 tour.India, chasing 193 for victory, were in deep trouble at 112/8 when Jasprit Bumrah joined Jadeja at the crease post-lunch. The pair showed remarkable fight, frustrating England with a 35-run partnership over 22 overs. Bumrah, coming off four consecutive ducks in Tests, showed great discipline to score 5 off 54 balls before top-edging a pull off Ben Stokes to substitute fielder Sam Cook at mid-on.At tea, India were 163/9, still needing 30 runs with Jadeja fighting alone and Mohammed Siraj unbeaten on 2. The match was tantalisingly poised, but England eventually wrapped up the innings to secure a thrilling win.
Despite the loss, Jadeja’s knock stood out — not just for its statistical value but for the character it revealed. On a day of crumbling resistance, he stood tall, almost taking India to what would have been a famous victory.Four consecutive 50+ scores for India in England5 Rishabh Pant (2021-25)4 Sourav Ganguly (2002)4* Ravindra Jadeja (2025)
