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As the first Test of the five-match series between England and India at Headingley enters its decisive phase, all eyes are on the crucial third-innings total India need to post to put the hosts under significant pressure. With the pitch showing increasing signs of wear and the match finely balanced, India’s strategy will need to blend historical performance with current conditions.
Historic third innings benchmarks at Headingley
Headingley has witnessed some remarkable third-innings scores in recent years, offering a glimpse into what might be required. The highest third-innings totals at this venue in the last decade include:
- England: 490/8 vs West Indies (2017)
- Sri Lanka: 457 vs England (2014)
- New Zealand: 454/8d vs England (2015)
- England: 349 vs Australia (2010)
- England: 326 vs New Zealand (2022)
These figures highlight that while 400-plus scores are achievable, they remain rare and typically demand exceptional batting performances coupled with favourable conditions.
After two high-scoring first innings, with India posting 471 and England replying with 465, the visitors began their second innings with a slender six-run lead. By the close of play on Day 3, India progressed to 90 for 2, extending their lead to 96 runs, with KL Rahul providing a steady anchor.
Early on Day 4, India further advanced to 119 for 3, reaching a lead of 125, but the loss of captain Shubman Gill has kept the contest finely poised.
Brydon Carse strikes in the first over of the day 🏏⚡
– Captain Shubman Gill departs for 8#CricketTwitter #ENGvsIND #ShubmanGill #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/gdWg9Uvb7M
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) June 23, 2025
How much total is enough for India? Stuart Broad weighs in
Former England fast bowler Stuart Broad, speaking to Sky Sports, offered his insights into what India’s target should be. He suggested that India should aim for a total in the region of 350 runs. Broad noted that while Headingley traditionally becomes easier for batting in the fourth innings, the current conditions – including heat, sunshine, and increasing spin – could make chasing more challenging than usual.
“If I was in India’s camp now I would be saying ‘get me another 250’ so 350 runs on the board,” Broad stated, emphasizing that the pitch is already showing signs of turn and uneven bounce.
This assessment is echoed by the evolving match situation: with the pitch deteriorating, footmarks developing, and Jasprit Bumrah in top form, even a target within the 300–350 range could prove formidable for England’s aggressive batting lineup.
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Strategic considerations for India
India’s strategy will be shaped by several key factors:
Pitch conditions: The Headingley surface is anticipated to deteriorate further, with variable bounce and turn increasingly challenging batters on the final day.
Weather: Overcast conditions forecast for the morning could provide assistance to seamers, making batting even more difficult for England.
Bowling firepower: India’s hopes will heavily rely on Bumrah’s ability to exploit the deteriorating conditions, especially as other bowlers have struggled to maintain consistency.
The next few hours of play will be critical in determining the course of this enthralling Test match, as India pushes to set a winning target.
Also READ: ENG vs IND – Sachin Tendulkar highlights India’s fielding lapses while congratulating Jasprit Bumrah
