England captain Ben Stokes is match to renew batting on Day Two of the third Test in opposition to India after elevating injury concerns on Thursday. Stokes, who ended Day One unbeaten on 39 alongside Joe Root (99*), appeared to battle with a groin niggle throughout the remaining session at Lord’s. He required on-field medical help and confirmed discomfort whereas operating between the wickets, casting doubt over his availability for the rest of the Test. England have been left barely on edge as their skipper continued to bat with warning, not often pushing for sharp singles. The crew’s fears, nonetheless, have been eased as Stokes has been cleared to return to the crease on Friday morning. Teammate Ollie Pope, chatting with the media after stumps, had expressed hope that Stokes would bounce again. “Fingers crossed he can do something magic and come back strong,” Pope mentioned, whereas stressing the significance of managing the captain’s workload forward of two extra essential Tests in Manchester and London.
India too had injury concerns of their very own after Rishabh Pant damage his finger whereas amassing a leg-side supply from Jasprit Bumrah. He didn’t return to the sector for the rest of the day, with Dhruv Jurel taking on behind the stumps.
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Though the BCCI confirmed Pant was receiving remedy and beneath medical supervision, no official phrase has been issued on his availability for the rest of the match. At stumps on Day One, England have been 251 for 4 in 90 overs. Joe Root remained unbeaten on 99 off 191 balls, whereas Ben Stokes was not out on 39 from 102 deliveries. Their unbroken 79-run stand for the fifth wicket helped England get better after India had struck twice in fast succession post-tea.
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