2 sessions of play were left on that day at the Lord’s. India had posted a target of 272 with just 60 overs remaining in the 2nd test match against England in 2021. The Indian Cricket Team makes a huddle. In walks then skipper, Virat Kohli and throws a fiery one liner that was going to be remembered for ages.
“For 60 overs they should feel hell out there” said Virat.
And that was the exact thing that happened next.
That was a shattering blow to England from the Indian pace unit, particularly Mohammad Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah, as both combined to dismantle the English batting line-up at the Home of Cricket. The struggles of England started right at the beginning as openers Dom Sibley and Rory Burns fell for ducks, with Bumrah and Shami laying the groundwork in the very first over. Captain Joe Root was attempting to graft the innings, but was dismissed for 33 following an excellent catch by Virat Kohli in the slips off an inch-perfect delivery from Jasprit Bumrah. Ishant Sharma joined in with the fall of Haseeb Hameed and Jonny Bairstow to reduce England to 67/4 in an extremely precarious position.
Despite the best efforts of Root, England collapsed for a meager 120 all out against the target of 272 runs. Siraj led from the front in the late attack on England’s tail with four timely wickets; Bumrah added three to his tally to close out the game and secure the dominating 151-run victory for India. The Indian bowlers, with spicy spells and continuous pressure, ensured a delightful victory that is going to be there in memory for any debacle encountered by India.
Kohli’s words probably acted as the fuel to the fire. The 2021 Lord’s test match between England and India is surely the one remembered for the ages. Courtesy – Virat Kohli and his words of wisdom.
The Sportz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye
