ENG vs IND [WATCH]: Ravindra Jadeja playfully challenges Joe Root on 99, daring him to take the run

The hallowed grounds of Lord’s witnessed a riveting first day of the third Take a look at between England and India, however amidst the intense contest, a second of pure cricketing theatre introduced smiles to the faces of gamers and followers alike. Because the solar started to set on the enduring London venue, a playful alternate between England’s ace batter Joe Root and India’s star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja offered a light-hearted conclusion to a day largely dominated by the house aspect’s batting.

Ravindra Jadeja teases Joe Root

With the ultimate over of the day’s play underway, Root, poised on 99 and on the cusp of his thirty seventh Take a look at century, confronted a back-of-a-length supply from the younger Indian pacer, Akash Deep. The previous England captain nudged the ball off his again foot in direction of deep backward level, the place Jadeja was positioned. A single was taken, placing Root only one run shy of the coveted milestone. Nevertheless, what adopted was a collection of gestures and a silent problem that encapsulated the aggressive but pleasant spirit of the sport.

Jadeja, recognized for his athleticism and a “rocket” arm, fielded the ball cleanly. As a substitute of instantly returning it to the bowler, he held it for a second, teasing Root into making an attempt the second run that might full his hundred. A veteran of numerous high-pressure moments, Root, at 35, knew the chance was not price it. The temptation was robust—the sight of the ball in Jadeja’s hand, the chance to succeed in his century and finish the day on a excessive—however he resisted. The Indian all-rounder, not one to let the second cross, additional prolonged the joke by dropping the ball onto the bottom, feigning an invite for Root to take the second run.

A large smile unfold throughout Root’s face as he stood his floor on the non-striker’s finish, shaking his head in amused denial. The second was a testomony to the respect between the 2 gamers and a basic instance of cricketing banter. As the ultimate ball of the day was bowled, Root remained stranded on 99, a solitary run away from a landmark. The day’s play ended, however the picture of Root’s infectious smile in response to Jadeja’s playful thoughts video games lingered, turning into essentially the most memorable spotlight of the day. He’ll now have an opportunity to succeed in his century on the second day of the Take a look at, a prospect that may certainly construct anticipation amongst followers.

Right here’s the video:

Rule #1: By no means danger it with @imjadeja 😶
Rule #2: In the event you overlook Rule #1 👀#ENGvIND 👉 third TEST Day 2 FRI, JULY 11, 2:30 PM streaming on JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/6chobVFsBL

— Star Sports activities (@StarSportsIndia) July 10, 2025

Additionally WATCH: Mohammed Siraj mocks defensive Joe Root with Bazball jibe on Day 1 of Lord’s Take a look at

England’s measured response to the Indian assault

The playful end result of the day was preceded by a powerful and regular efficiency by the England batting line-up. Regardless of dropping 4 wickets, the house aspect completed the day in a commanding place, reaching 251 runs on the shut of play. Joe Root was the anchor of the innings, displaying his attribute magnificence and management in opposition to each tempo and spin. He was properly supported by England’s captain, Ben Stokes, who was an image of resilience on the different finish. Stokes ended the day with a stable, unbeaten 39 runs from 102 deliveries, enjoying the position of the best companion to perfection.

The Indian bowling unit, whereas disciplined, discovered it difficult to constantly break via the resolute English resistance. Ravindra Jadeja was arguably the choose of the bowlers, showcasing his distinctive management and wicket-taking capacity. He was notably miserly, conceding simply 26 runs from his 10 overs whereas additionally claiming the essential wicket of Ollie Pope.

Additionally READ: Followers react as Joe Root’s gritty 99 not out leads England’s fightback after India’s early strikes on Day 1 of Lord’s Take a look at