The fifth day of the second Test played at Lord’s promises a classic Test-match finish. India ended day four on 181/6 and gained a lead of 154 runs.
Team India was in deep trouble at 55/3 when skipper Virat Kohli departed after scoring 20 runs. But the experienced duo of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane steadied the innings with a hard-fought 100-run stand. However, England made a comeback in the last hour of the day to take three quick wickets.
England all-rounder Moeen Ali said that a target of 220-230 would be challenging to chase on a deteriorating Lord’s pitch.
"I think both teams are in a decent situation, it's been a fantastic game of cricket. I think anything over 220-230 is going to be pretty difficult, but not impossible obviously. It won't be easy," Moeen Ali said after the day’s play.
Team India will depend on Rishabh Pant to give them a substantial lead. The wicket-keeper batsman is batting on 14 and is capable of changing the game in a few overs. Ali said that his team will look to take the new-ball advantage.
"We know what Pant can do, he can be so dangerous. But we all have to play well tomorrow. The new ball will be crucial tomorrow. We also have Jimmy Anderson,” he said.
Ali, who is playing only his second Test in two years, is having a good game. He contributed with the bat and pegged India back with two wickets late on day four. "I'm not taking things too seriously anymore. I know there will be bad days and there will be good days," he said.
"I'm really enjoying myself. That was my aim really. I just wanted to be part of the series and do well. Hopefully, I get more runs," he concluded.
(PTI inputs)
