The cricket test series between England and India is on a knife-edge after the away side mopped up some minor resistance in less than three overs on the final day to celebrate a massive win.
India bowled England out for 317 to take a huge 203 run win – only the seventh time the team has won a match in England since gaining test status in 1932.
In the 2018 England v England series, the home side leads 2-1 with two matches remaining.
But a complete demolition of an under-par England leaves India with great hope of a major upset.
The victory is even more significant as India were steamrollered to an innings defeat by England in the second test.
Kohli makes difference
England were on a roll leading up to the match at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, after winning three tests in a row – including two against India.
But two fine innings from India’s batting talisman and captain Virat Kohli were really the difference between the sides. He hit 97 runs in the first innings and followed that fine display with a score of 103 in the second.
The extent of the victory is even more considerable as India had only one out of their previous 11 tests in England and only passed 200 runs once in their previous nine innings.
England’s highlight was a maiden century by Jos Buttler racked up 107 runs in his 23rdtest appearance.
“It’s been a long time coming and a few months ago it was a million miles away. It’s a huge moment for me,” he said.
Bairstow doubts
However, England are likely to lose wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow for the fourth test In Southampton on August 30. James Vince has been called up as cover.
If Bairstow is fit, he will play as a batsman with Jos Buttler behind the stumps.
“Vince returns to the England set-up in confident form and scoring runs. He has been in excellent form for Hampshire,” said national selector Ed Smith.
Scorecard
India 329 & 352-7 declared: Kohli 103, Pujara 72, Rashid 3-101
England 161 & 317: Buttler 106, Stokes 62, Bumrah 5-85
India win by 203 runs
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