Trisha Ghosal in London
In a Test that’s simmered rather than sizzled, India and England find themselves level after the first innings, both scoring 387. On Day 3, the rhythm of the match saw a dramatic twist just before lunch with Rishabh Pant’s run-out and KL Rahul’s century being followed by another collapse averted by India’s lower middle order. But while the cricket ebbed and flowed, there were as many questions about stoppages and scheduling as about wickets and runs when England’s Specialist Skills Consultant Tim Southee faced the media.
On what he made of Crawley’s time-wasting and India’s response
Southee cheekily replied,”Yeah, it’s good, it’s always exciting to see both sides animated towards the end. I’m not sure what they were complaining about. When Shubham Gill wasted time in the middle of the day yesterday, it was fine. It’s obviously part of the game, you’re near the end of the day and it’s an exciting way to finish the day.”
Is it acceptable to lose 30 overs in three days of Test cricket?
With frustration mounting over slow over-rates and long stoppages, Southee acknowledged the issue but offered mitigation.
“Yeah, it’s never ideal,” he said. “It’s obviously been hot. So there’s probably been more drinks than usual. Then you’ve got DRS, ball changes, little breaks that add up. But yes, to lose that much time over three days—it’s probably at the extreme level.”
Is the Duke ball failing the Test?
There were sharp questions over the number of times the ball has needed replacing—sometimes as early as 46 or 61 deliveries.
“It’s frustrating,” admitted Southee. “The Duke ball traditionally offers something for the bowlers throughout. But this batch? They’ve gone soft or out of shape quickly. Still, the bowlers have brought energy, smacking the wicket hard, trying to make something happen.”
How impressed were you with Ben Stokes’ game-changing spell?
If England stayed in the match, it was down to their captain’s relentless effort.
“He’s a tough man to get the ball off when he’s in rhythm,” Southee smiled. “That spell before lunch was outstanding—touching 90 mph, picking up Pant with a brilliant run-out. He’s just one of those cricketers who makes things happen from nowhere.”
What’s the mood in the dressing room ahead of a two-day shootout?
With the scores level and the game finely poised, Southee was optimistic.
“It’s been a proper old-fashioned Test so far,” he said. “Two sides playing good cricket in good spirit. Now, with the pitch starting to offer a bit more and hot weather forecast, we’re in for an exciting finish.”
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