Former England bowler Stuart Broad has expressed that India will need a remarkable century from either captain Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, or Rohit Sharma to successfully chase down England’s imposing 387/3 in the crucial third ODI at Lord’s. England has set a challenging target of 388 for India to win the series decider, propelled by Ben Duckett’s 141, Jacob Bethell’s 91, Joe Root’s unbeaten 71 off 48 balls, and Jos Buttler’s quick 41 not out from just 13 deliveries.
Broad mentioned that it would be quite entertaining if India manages to come close to the target, emphasizing the necessity for one of Gill, Kohli, or Rohit to score a century. He noted the favorable conditions with a hot day, a fast outfield, and a good batting pitch but criticized India’s bowling performance as subpar. Ex-England captain Nasser Hussain remarked that India appeared ‘shell-shocked’ in the absence of key bowler Jasprit Bumrah.
Hussain praised England’s batting display, especially Buttler’s late momentum, and highlighted the selectors’ wise choice of Bethell as an opener. He also commended the role played by senior batsman Joe Root in anchoring the team’s performance across formats. The match holds significance for England, historically not excelling in knockout games, but displaying a strong batting performance on this occasion.
The day also saw emotional tributes to the late West Indies legend Sir Garfield Sobers, with Broad and West Indies great Brian Lara paying respects to his legacy. Broad described Sobers as a ‘legend’ and an ‘icon’ who inspired countless individuals worldwide to take up cricket due to his natural flair and love for the game. Lara, recalling Sobers as a father figure and mentor, urged the Caribbean to celebrate his remarkable life and legacy.
