India claw back after Brook, Root tons to set up thrilling finish

England 247 and 339 for 6 (Brook 111, Root 105, Duckett 54, Prasidh 3-109) need 35 more runs to beat India 224 and 396

An extraordinary series will head into its 25th day with its outcome still undecided. Powered by sparkling hundreds from Harry Brook and Joe Root, England were cruising towards a target of 374 without breaking a sweat. But Prasidh Krishna kept India’s hopes alive with two wickets in nine balls, before bad light and heavy rain sent a fifth Test out of five into a fifth day.

The equation is tantalising. England need only 35 more runs with four wickets in hand. However, one of those, Chris Woakes, has his arm in a sling due to a shoulder injury. He is expected to bat—likely as the last man—only if absolutely necessary. A new ball will be available to India in 3.4 overs, and their seamers will return rested and refreshed after an exhausting workload on Sunday.

It will be a fitting end to a brilliant, brutal series that has tested players’ physical and mental resilience. England’s 2-1 series lead has been built on a successful chase of 371 in Leeds and a defence of 193 at Lord’s. India have kept up sustained pressure, but they will need one final push on Monday morning if they are to head home with a drawn series. (ESPNcricinfo)