Introduction: Washington Sundar’s Lord’s 2025 Wickets Steal the Show
Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 was a defining moment in the England vs. India 3rd Test, igniting India’s hopes in a thrilling chase of 193. On a pitch offering inconsistent bounce, Sundar’s off-spin dismantled England’s batting lineup, reducing them from 154/4 to 192 all out. His career-best overseas figures not havoc but also etched his name in Lord’s history as the first Indian spinner in 51 years to claim a four-wicket haul at the venue.
As India ended Day 4 at 58/4, needing 135 runs, Sundar’s spell set the stage for a gripping finale. How did this 25-year-old all-rounder, often overshadowed by Ravindra Jadeja, become India’s surprise weapon? This article breaks down Sundar’s wickets, analyzes India’s spin bowling strategy in the 3rd Test 2025, and explores his growing legacy.
Match Context: Lord’s 2025 and India’s Spin Strategy
The 3rd Test at Lord’s in 2025 was a battle of attrition, with the series tied at 1-1. Both teams posted identical first-innings totals of 387, setting up a tense second innings. England’s 192 all out, driven by Sundar’s 4/22, gave India a target of 193. The Lord’s pitch, known for its pace-friendly nature, showed variable bounce on Day 4, aiding spinners like Sundar and Jadeja.
India’s bowling strategy leaned heavily on their pacers—Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj—but Sundar’s introduction after lunch proved pivotal. His ability to exploit the old ball, combined with Jadeja’s tight lines, showcased India’s spin bowling depth in the 3rd Test 2025. Unlike Jadeja, known for his relentless accuracy, Sundar brought subtle drift and variation, proving he was more than a part-time spinner.
Table 1: India’s Bowling Performance in England’s 2nd Innings
| Bowler | Overs | Maidens | Runs | Wickets | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington Sundar | 12.1 | 2 | 22 | 4 | 1.80 |
| Jasprit Bumrah | 16 | 3 | 38 | 2 | 2.40 |
| Mohammed Siraj | 13 | 2 | 31 | 2 | 2.40 |
| Akash Deep | 8 | 2 | 30 | 1 | 3.80 |
| Nitish Reddy | 5 | 1 | 20 | 1 | 4.00 |
| Ravindra Jadeja | 8 | 1 | 20 | 0 | 2.50 |
Washington Sundar’s 4/22: A Wicket-by-Wicket Breakdown
Sundar’s spell was a masterclass in spin bowling, with all four wickets—Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Jamie Smith, and Shoaib Bashir—bowled, a rare feat at Lord’s. Here’s how he turned the game:
- Joe Root (40): Sundar struck the biggest blow by dismissing Root, England’s top scorer. Root, attempting a sweep, was undone by a sliding delivery that rattled his middle stump, ending a 67-run stand with Stokes. This was a turning point, as Root’s 40 was England’s highest score.espncricinfo.com
- Jamie Smith (8): Sundar’s quicker ball at 101 kph was the pick of his wickets. Smith, expecting spin, played back but was beaten by a skidding delivery that hit off stump. This wicket broke India’s frustration after Smith’s resistance in earlier Tests.
- Ben Stokes (33): England’s captain fell to a risky sweep shot, with Sundar’s drift and turn disturbing the stumps. This dismissal ended a gritty 67-run partnership and swung momentum firmly toward India.timesofindia.indiatimes.com
- Shoaib Bashir (2): Sundar sealed England’s collapse by bowling Bashir, completing a 12th bowled dismissal in the match—a record not seen since 1955. His precision with the old ball was key.sportskeeda.com
Sundar’s economy of 1.80 was the most miserly among India’s bowlers, highlighting his control. His spell triggered a collapse of 6 wickets for 38 runs, setting India up for a chase of 193.
Table 2: Washington Sundar’s Wickets in England’s 2nd Innings
| Batsman | Runs | Balls | Dismissal | Key Moment Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Root | 40 | 96 | Bowled | Slid under attempted sweep, hit middle stump |
| Jamie Smith | 8 | 14 | Bowled | Quicker ball at 101 kph, skidded to hit off stump |
| Ben Stokes | 33 | 96 | Bowled | Beaten by drift, stumps disturbed on sweep shot |
| Shoaib Bashir | 2 | 9 | Bowled | Final wicket, completed England’s collapse |
ESPNcricinfo.com
Washington Sundar England vs India Analysis: A Surprise Weapon
Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 Sundar’s selection over Kuldeep Yadav raised eyebrows, with critics questioning India’s choice of a “defensive” all-rounder. However, his 4/22 silenced doubters, proving he was more than a sixth bowling option. Unlike Jadeja, who bowled tight but wicketless (8-1-20-0), Sundar used drift and subtle turn to outfox England’s batsmen. His approach aligned with bowling coach Morne Morkel’s advice to attack the stumps, exploiting the pitch’s variable bounce.timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Ravichandran Ashwin, in a YouTube video, noted that Sundar’s success came from using the pitch’s conditions rather than unplayable deliveries, emphasizing his adaptability. Sundar’s spell was historic, marking the best figures by an Indian spinner at Lord’s since Bishan Singh Bedi’s 6/226 in 1974, and he now holds the fourth-best figures by an Indian at the venue, surpassing S Venkataraghavan’s 4/52.
Sundar vs. Jadeja at Lord’s 2025:
- Sundar: 4/22 in 12.1 overs, targeted stumps with drift and pace variation.
- Jadeja: 0/20 in 8 overs, focused on containment but lacked breakthroughs.
Sundar’s performance also marked his 100th international wicket, achieved across 11 Tests, 23 ODIs, and 54 T20Is. His Test average of 20.25 since his comeback underlines his growing value as a genuine all-rounder.
Comparing Sundar’s Overseas Stats: A Rising Star
Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 Sundar’s 4/22 is a standout in his overseas Test record, where he has often played second fiddle to senior spinners. Below is a comparison of his overseas Test performances:
Table 3: Washington Sundar’s Overseas Test Bowling Stats
| Match | Venue | Year | Overs | Runs | Wickets | Economy | Best Figures |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG vs IND, 3rd Test | Lord’s | 2025 | 12.1 | 22 | 4 | 1.80 | 4/22 |
| AUS vs IND, 4th Test | Brisbane | 2021 | 31 | 89 | 3 | 2.87 | 3/89 |
| ENG vs IND, 4th Test | Ahmedabad | 2021 | 14 | 44 | 1 | 3.14 | 1/44 |
| AUS vs IND, 3rd Test | Sydney | 2021 | 22 | 80 | 2 | 3.63 | 2/80 |
Sundar’s Lord’s spell stands out for its economy and impact, surpassing his previous best overseas figures. His ability to bowl tight and take wickets on a pace-friendly pitch highlights his versatility.
Fan Reactions: Sundar’s Spell Sparks Buzz on X
Fans on X erupted with praise for Sundar’s performance, with many calling him the “true successor to Ashwin.” Here are some reactions:
- “Washington Sundar is a great cricketer. He bats like a top-order player and bowls like a classic spinner.”
- “Public apology to Washington Sundar. I wanted Kuldeep, but he’s proven me wrong with both bat and ball!”
- “Sundar’s 4/22 is the most economical four-for by a visiting spinner at Lord’s since 2001. What a spell!”
The Lord’s Pitch: A Spinner’s Ally in 2025
Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 The Lord’s pitch in 2025 played a crucial role in Sundar’s success. Known for favoring pacers, the Day 4 surface offered variable bounce, which Sundar exploited with his drift and quicker deliveries. England’s batsmen, accustomed to playing across the line, struggled against his stump-targeting approach. A fan on X noted, “Sundar’s spell changed the game completely. Root’s wicket before tea was the turning point.”
Table 4: Lord’s 2025 Pitch Impact on Bowling
| Bowler Type | Wickets Taken | Key Observation |
|---|---|---|
| Spinners | 4 (Sundar) | Exploited variable bounce, targeted stumps |
| Pacers | 6 | Used wobble seam, swing for early wickets |
India’s pacers, including Bumrah (2/38) and Siraj (2/31), set the tone, but Sundar’s spin was the game-changer.
Sundar’s Press Conference: Confidence in India’s Chase
Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 Post-Day 4, Sundar expressed confidence in India’s batting lineup, despite the precarious 58/4. “The position we’re in right now… probably one wicket less would’ve been ideal, but we have solid batters like Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja to come,” he said. He also highlighted the team’s bowling effort: “The way our fast bowlers kept the pressure going was amazing.” Sundar’s optimism, backed by his match-defining spell, has fans hopeful for a historic chase.
Historical Context: Sundar’s Place Among Indian Spinners at Lord’s
Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 Sundar’s 4/22 is a historic milestone, as he became the first Indian spinner since Bishan Singh Bedi (6/226 in 1974) to take four or more wickets at Lord’s. His figures rank fourth among Indian bowlers at the venue:
Table 5: Best Indian Bowling Figures at Lord’s
| Bowler | Figures | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Bishan Singh Bedi | 6/226 | 1974 |
| Bhagwat Chandrasekhar | 5/127 | 1971 |
| Vinoo Mankad | 5/196 | 1952 |
| Washington Sundar | 4/22 | 2025 |
| S Venkataraghavan | 4/52 | 1971 |
Sundar’s economy of 1.80 is also the most economical four-wicket haul by a visiting spinner at Lord’s since 2001, cementing his legacy.
India’s Spin Bowling in the 3rd Test 2025: Beyond Sundar
Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 While Sundar stole the spotlight, India’s spin bowling in the 3rd Test 2025 was a team effort. Jadeja’s 8 overs yielded no wickets but kept England’s batsmen under pressure, allowing Sundar to strike. The contrast between Sundar’s wicket-taking flair and Jadeja’s containment role highlights India’s balanced spin attack. Ashwin’s analysis on YouTube praised Sundar’s use of pitch conditions, suggesting he didn’t rely on “unplayable” balls but on smart bowling.
Sundar vs. Jadeja: Key Differences:
- Sundar: Varied pace, used drift to bowl out batsmen.
- Jadeja: Focused on accuracy, restricted scoring but didn’t take wickets.
This synergy made India’s spin bowling in the 3rd Test 2025 a formidable force.
What’s Next for Sundar and India?
Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 Sundar’s performance has sparked debates about his role in India’s Test setup. Fans on X suggested moving him up the batting order, given his defensive skills and 280 runs at an average of 31 since his comeback. His 4/22 has also silenced critics who doubted his selection over Kuldeep Yadav, with coach Gautam Gambhir’s backing proving pivotal.indiatoday.in
As India face a tricky chase of 135 runs on Day 5, Sundar may need to contribute with the bat. With KL Rahul (33*) holding fort and players like Pant and Jadeja to come, India remain favorites, but England’s pacers—led by Brydon Carse and Jofra Archer—will pose a challenge.
Fan Poll: Was Sundar India’s MVP at Lord’s 2025?
Poll: Who was India’s standout performer on Day 4 at Lord’s 2025?
- Washington Sundar (4/22)
- Jasprit Bumrah (2/38)
- Mohammed Siraj (2/31)
- KL Rahul (33* batting)
Cast your vote in the comments on our IPL Star blog and share your thoughts on X!
Your Queries Answered
Q: How did Washington Sundar perform at Lord’s 2025?
A: Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 Sundar took 4/22 in 12.1 overs, dismissing Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Jamie Smith, and Shoaib Bashir, all bowled. His spell triggered England’s collapse from 154/4 to 192.
Q: Why was Sundar’s spell historic?
A: Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 His 4/22 is the best by an Indian spinner at Lord’s since 1974 and the most economical four-wicket haul by a visiting spinner at the venue since 2001.
Q: How does Sundar compare to Jadeja in the 3rd Test?
A: Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 Sundar took wickets with drift and pace variation, while Jadeja focused on containment, bowling 8-1-20-0. Their roles complemented India’s strategy.
Q: Can India win the Lord’s Test 2025?
A: Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 Needing 135 runs with 6 wickets in hand, India are well-placed, especially with Pant and Jadeja to bat. However, England’s pacers remain a threat.
Conclusion: Sundar’s Spin Magic Lights Up Lord’s
Washington Sundar’s 4/22 at Lord’s 2025 was a game-changer, proving his worth as a versatile all-rounder. His ability to outshine expectations, dismiss key batsmen, and set up a thrilling chase has made him a fan favorite. Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 As India chase history on Day 5, Sundar’s spell will be remembered as a defining moment in the 3rd Test. For more cricket updates, check out our IPL Star blog for IPL news, player analyses, and live match insights. Share your thoughts on Sundar’s performance in the comments or on X and Telegram Channel!
FAQs: Washington Sundar’s 4/22 at Lord’s 2025
1. What was Washington Sundar’s performance in the Lord’s 2025 wickets haul?
Answer: Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 Washington Sundar delivered a career-best 4/22 in 12.1 overs during England’s 2nd innings in the 3rd Test at Lord’s 2025. He dismissed Joe Root (40), Ben Stokes (33), Jamie Smith (8), and Shoaib Bashir (2), all bowled, triggering England’s collapse from 154/4 to 192. His economy of 1.80 was the best among India’s bowlers.
2. Why was Washington Sundar’s 4/22 significant in the 3rd Test 2025?
Answer: Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 Sundar’s 4/22 was historic, marking the best figures by an Indian spinner at Lord’s since Bishan Singh Bedi’s 6/226 in 1974. His spell set India a chase of 193, making him a key figure in India’s spin bowling dominance in the 3rd Test 2025. It also marked his 100th international wicket.
3. How did Washington Sundar compare to Ravindra Jadeja at Lord’s 2025?
Answer: Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 In the Washington Sundar England vs India analysis, Sundar’s 4/22 outshone Jadeja’s 0/20 in 8 overs. Sundar used drift and pace variation to take wickets, while Jadeja focused on containment. Their complementary roles strengthened India’s spin bowling in the 3rd Test 2025.
4. How did the Lord’s pitch aid Washington Sundar’s wickets in 2025?
Answer: Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 The Lord’s 2025 pitch offered inconsistent bounce on Day 4, favoring spinners. Sundar exploited this with stump-targeting deliveries, dismissing key batsmen like Root and Stokes. His ability to use drift and quicker balls made his 4/22 a game-changer.
5. Who were the key batsmen dismissed by Washington Sundar at Lord’s 2025?
Answer: Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 Sundar’s Lord’s 2025 wickets included Joe Root (40), Ben Stokes (33), Jamie Smith (8), and Shoaib Bashir (2). Each dismissal was bowled, showcasing his precision and making him the first Indian spinner in 51 years to take four wickets at Lord’s.
6. How did India’s spin bowling strategy work in the 3rd Test 2025?
Answer: Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 India’s spin bowling in the 3rd Test 2025 relied on Sundar’s wicket-taking flair and Jadeja’s tight lines. Sundar’s 4/22, supported by Jadeja’s 0/20, pressured England’s batsmen, while pacers like Bumrah and Siraj set the tone, leading to a target of 193.
7. What made Washington Sundar’s selection surprising for Lord’s 2025?
Answer: Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 Sundar’s selection over Kuldeep Yadav was debated, but his 4/22 justified the call. His ability to adapt to a pace-friendly Lord’s pitch and outshine expectations highlighted his value as an all-rounder in the Washington Sundar England vs India analysis.
8. How does Sundar’s 4/22 rank among Indian bowlers at Lord’s?
Answer: Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 Sundar’s 4/22 is the fourth-best bowling figure by an Indian at Lord’s, behind Bedi (6/226, 1974), Chandrasekhar (5/127, 1971), and Mankad (5/196, 1952). It’s also the most economical four-wicket haul by a visiting spinner at Lord’s since 2001.
9. Can India win the Lord’s Test 2025 after Sundar’s spell?
Answer: Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 India need 135 runs with 6 wickets in hand, led by KL Rahul (33*). Sundar’s 4/22 set a chaseable target, and with Rishabh Pant and Jadeja to bat, India are favorites, though England’s pacers like Brydon Carse remain a threat.
10. Where can I watch highlights of Washington Sundar’s Lord’s 2025 wickets?
Answer: Washington Sundar Lord’s 2025 Wickets 4/22 Highlights of Washington Sundar’s Lord’s 2025 wickets are available on platforms like ESPNcricinfo, Cricbuzz, or Sky Sports. Check IPL Star for curated clips and analysis of India’s spin bowling in the 3rd Test 2025.