Leeds, June 25 (V7N) – England showcased their signature aggressive style of cricket, often dubbed "Bazball", to clinch a five-wicket win over India in the third Test at Headingley, Leeds. Chasing a daunting target of 371, the English batters stormed to victory by scoring 350 runs in a single day.

Ben Duckett, who was instrumental in both innings with scores of 62 and 149, was named Player of the Match.

After India were bowled out for 364 late on Day 4, England began their chase with 21 runs on the board in six overs. Openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett resumed play on Day 5 with flair. Crawley made a solid 65 before falling to Prasidh Krishna, who struck again in the same spell to bowl Ollie Pope for just 8.

Despite the setbacks, Duckett remained the pillar of the English innings. He reached a blistering 149 before being caught at extra cover off Shardul Thakur. The very next ball saw Harry Brook, the hero of the previous match with 99 runs, dismissed for a golden duck.

At 253 for 4, India sensed an opportunity. However, former captain Joe Root held firm with a composed 53 off 84 balls, forming a 49-run stand with Ben Stokes (33) and an unbeaten 71-run partnership with Jamie Smith (44*), sealing the match for the hosts.

India’s pace trio Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Shardul Thakur failed to dismantle England’s middle and lower order as England reached 371 for 5 in a display of fearless batting.

With this win, England continue to redefine Test cricket with their attacking mindset, while India are left to reassess their bowling strategies.

END/SMA/AJ