Brook Fifty Narrows Deficit as England Fights Back. India claimed early wickets on Day 3, but Harry Brook’s composed fifty led England’s recovery as they narrowed the deficit to 144 runs in the ongoing Test.
June 22, 2025 | On a day that began with India on top, England found some much-needed stability through Harry Brook. His confident half-century came at a critical moment, helping England recover from early blows and reduce the deficit to 144 runs by lunch on Day 3.
India started aggressively, striking early and removing overnight batter Ollie Pope. Prasidh Krishna’s sharp short delivery took Pope’s edge, caught behind. But what followed was a textbook display of calm counterattack.
Brook, known for his fluent strokeplay, stepped up just when England needed him. He looked in control from the start, getting boundaries off Jasprit Bumrah and Krishna to relieve the pressure. His timing was crisp, and his intent clear—staying at the crease and scoring freely.
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Captain Ben Stokes played the supporting role, showing patience and letting Brook take charge. Together, they began rebuilding the innings in measured fashion, frustrating the Indian bowlers who started the day with energy and purpose.
Jamie Smith Joins the Rescue Effort
After Stokes fell to a ball from Siraj that kept a bit low, Jamie Smith entered with the score still behind India’s first-innings total. Smith took some time to settle, but gradually opened up with singles and a couple of classy drives.
Brook’s maturity showed through his shot selection. He rotated strike well, stayed compact, and didn’t overhit. Even against Ravindra Jadeja, who tested the right-handers with drift and spin, Brook remained composed.
By lunch, England had reached 327 for 5. Brook stood unbeaten with a gritty fifty, and Smith giving him company as they looked to close in on India’s total.
Can England Level the Game from Here?
Despite still trailing by 144 runs, England’s approach was promising. The pitch hasn’t deteriorated much, but bowlers are getting assistance with movement and bounce. With Brook still at the crease and Smith looking settled, a full recovery is not out of reach.
India, though, won’t sit back. Bumrah, Siraj, and Jadeja have all bowled with intensity. A couple of quick wickets after lunch could shift momentum back in India’s favor.
The match, as it stands, is delicately poised.
Brook’s Knock: Why It Matters
Harry Brook’s innings may not seem flashy, but it came under pressure, with India dominating the first hour. His knock not only brought England closer to parity but also ensured they didn’t collapse under pressure.
This kind of resilience is what England has lacked in key moments in past matches, and Brook’s role today has reminded everyone of the importance of grit and patience in Test cricket.
Who removed Ollie Pope today?
Prasidh Krishna dismissed Pope early with a short delivery that took the edge and was caught behind.
How many runs did Brook score by lunch?
Harry Brook reached an unbeaten fifty, anchoring the innings and narrowing the deficit significantly.
Is the pitch helping bowlers or batters?
The pitch has offered something for both—some bounce and seam movement for the pacers, but it’s still good for batting if one applies themselves.
What’s the current score?
England went into lunch at 327/5, trailing India’s first innings by 144 runs.
Brook Fifty Narrows: Final Conclusion
England’s response on Day 3 has given the match fresh energy. Brook’s calm fifty, paired with a patient effort from Smith and earlier from Stokes, has brought the deficit down and kept England in contention. India may have struck early, but they’ll need more breakthroughs to reclaim control.
As the afternoon session unfolds, all eyes will be on Brook—can he convert his fifty into a match-defining innings?
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