IND vs ENG Live Score Day 5: England Seizes Control in Morning Session at Headingley
The IND vs ENG Live Score Day 5 from Headingley brought a major twist in the narrative of this thrilling Test match, as England completely dominated the morning session. Resuming with all ten wickets in hand and a daunting target of 371 runs to chase, the English openers—Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley—put on a sublime display of controlled aggression, guiding England to 117/0 at lunch. With just 254 more runs needed and five sessions remaining in the day, India finds itself under immense pressure.
This shift in momentum has been stark, especially after India’s powerful position at the end of Day 4, thanks to centuries from KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. But in classic Test match fashion, the pendulum has swung again, making for a compelling final chapter in this first Test of the series.
🏏 Duckett’s Aggression Meets Crawley’s Composure
The session began under overcast skies, and India’s pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj operated with intent. The opening overs were tight, and both Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley were watchful, showing due respect to the new ball and the quality of India’s seamers.
However, the moment Bumrah was given a rest, things started unraveling for India. Shardul Thakur and debutant Prasidh Krishna were brought into the attack, and England’s openers pounced on the opportunity. Duckett, in particular, was outstanding—stepping out, cutting, and pulling with flair. He reached his half-century in quick time, bringing up his milestone with a stylish drive through the covers.
Zak Crawley, meanwhile, provided the perfect foil. His solid defensive technique and calm temperament ensured England maintained control without taking unnecessary risks. While Duckett scored briskly, Crawley rotated the strike and punished the loose deliveries with elegant strokes.
Together, they compiled an unbeaten century stand, one of the highlights of the series so far. The contrasting styles of the two batters reflected the essence of England’s new-found aggressive Test philosophy under the “Bazball” regime. When executed correctly, it can take the game away from any opposition—and that’s exactly what was witnessed at Headingley.
😠 India’s Bowling Misfires and Mounting Frustration
On a pitch that still had enough assistance for seamers, India’s bowlers failed to capitalize on early opportunities. While Bumrah bowled with his usual discipline and Siraj tested both edges, their efforts were nullified by lackluster support from the rest.
Shardul Thakur and Prasidh Krishna were expensive and inconsistent. Thakur in particular bowled too short and allowed Duckett to free his arms. Krishna, though showing promise, lacked the penetration required at this level. Their spells not only failed to produce chances but also released pressure built by Bumrah and Siraj.
Skipper Shubman Gill, captaining in his first Test, looked tactically uncertain. Field placements were reactionary, and frequent bowling changes seemed to suggest a lack of planning. India, known for its disciplined bowling unit, suddenly appeared rudderless.
The frustration boiled over just before lunch when Mohammed Siraj lost his cool after Crawley pulled away at the last moment while he was in his run-up. Siraj was seen yelling in exasperation, and the moment was symbolic of India’s unraveling composure.
🕰️ Context and What’s at Stake
Heading into Day 5, India had held the upper hand. Their second innings total of 364, built on Pant’s twin centuries (134 and 118) and Rahul’s 137, seemed strong enough on a deteriorating pitch. However, the late collapse triggered by Josh Tongue and Brydon Carse allowed England to restrict the lead and gave themselves a fighting chance.
With a target of 371, many expected England to struggle under scoreboard pressure. But Duckett and Crawley have thrown the script out the window. IND vs ENG Live Score Day 5
As things stand, England needs just 254 more runs with all ten wickets in hand, and the pitch is still relatively good for batting. India must regroup quickly, as one breakthrough could change the complexion again. But they’ll need more than just Bumrah and Siraj—it’ll take a complete bowling unit effort, combined with sharp fielding and smart captaincy, to claw back into the match. IND vs ENG Live Score Day 5
📊 Day 5 Morning Session Summary
| Session Details | Highlights |
|---|---|
| England at Stumps (Day 4) | 21/0 |
| Lunch Score (Day 5) | 117/0 |
| England Openers | Duckett 65* (72), Crawley 45* (89) |
| India’s Bowlers | Bumrah 6-2-12-0, Siraj 7-1-18-0 |
| Most Expensive Bowler | Thakur: 6 overs, 42 runs |
| Target | 371 |
| Runs Remaining | 254 |
⚔️ The Road Ahead: High Stakes, High Drama IND vs ENG Live Score Day 5
As we head into the second session of Day 5, the match is delicately poised. If England continues at this pace, they could wrap up the chase before tea. But Test cricket has a way of springing surprises—one wicket can trigger panic, especially in a chase of this magnitude. IND vs ENG Live Score Day 5
India, under pressure, must come out with clear plans. They need to find a way past this dogged English opening partnership. Whether it’s a spell of magic from Bumrah, reverse swing from Siraj, or a tactical masterstroke from Gill—India’s response in the next session will define the outcome of this gripping Test.
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