The third day of the Lord’s Test between India and England ended on a fiery note as tempers flared during the last over of the day. With six minutes left on the clock, Jasprit Bumrah prepared to bowl the final over.
However, England openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett appeared to intentionally delay the game by stepping away multiple times and even calling for medical attention—seemingly to ensure a second over wouldn’t be bowled before stumps. Their time-wasting tactics frustrated the Indian side, who were hoping to squeeze in another over to maximize their bowling opportunity.
Gill’s Outburst and On-Field Confrontation
India’s Shubman Gill, fielding in the slips, couldn’t hide his frustration. He was heard shouting an expletive-laden remark at Crawley—telling him to “grow some balls”—while making a sharp hand gesture.
This confrontation escalated as Gill walked up toward Crawley, and the two exchanged words. Ben Duckett also stepped in briefly, adding to the drama. The Indian players mocked Crawley with sarcastic applause when he called for the physio after being struck on the glove, suggesting they believed the injury was exaggerated to buy more time. The umpires intervened, but India managed to bowl the final ball of the day, and England finished at 2/0.
Mixed Reactions from Players and Experts
The incident drew varied responses from cricketing circles. KL Rahul acknowledged that England was clearly trying to run the clock down, calling India’s push for one more over a “no-brainer.” Former players had differing takes—Michael Atherton saw it as competitive spirit and called it entertaining drama, while Stuart Broad labelled it his “favourite over of the series.”
Steven Finn went so far as to describe the incident as “proper shithousery.” England coach Tim Southee downplayed the tension, suggesting such tactics are part of the game, especially near the close of play. Despite the drama, the situation injected a dose of theatre into an otherwise composed session, highlighting the intensity and pressure of top-level Test cricket.
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