[WATCH] ENG vs IND 2025: Ravindra Jadeja teases Joe Root for staying on 99* at Stumps on Day 1

Ace England batter Joe Root and India’s star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja shared a humorous moment at the close of Day 1 in the third Test at Lord’s. The playful exchange took place during the final over of the day, bowled by Akash Deep. On the fourth delivery, Root punched a back-of-a-length ball off the back foot toward backward point, where Jadeja was fielding. The English batter comfortably took a single, moving to 99 and setting up a chance for a century on Day 2.

However, Jadeja wasn’t going to make it easy for Root to reach his hundred right away. After collecting the ball cleanly, he gestured and teased Root to run for the second, even dropping the ball on the ground to tempt him further. Known for his rocket throws and sharp reflexes, Jadeja gave the impression that he was daring Root to attempt the risky second run. The Indian fielder's antics triggered a smile from Root, who wisely held back and didn’t take the bait.

See Also: ENG vs IND 3rd Test Day 1: Full Highlights and Key Moments

Root, with a big grin on his face, chose to play it safe and remained unbeaten on 99 as the umpires called for Stumps after 83 overs. The moment delighted fans, providing a light-hearted close to a competitive day of Test cricket. Root now has the chance to complete his 37th Test century and his 11th against India when play resumes on Day 2. Jadeja’s playful act added charm to what was otherwise a tense and absorbing day at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground.

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SIR JADEJA – WHAT A CHARACTER! 🤣

Jaddu casually offering a double to Joe Root so he can complete his hundred. Sportsmanship + Sass = Jaddu Special 😂👏#Jadeja #JoeRoot #ENGvIND

pic.twitter.com/0B25xBBYUB

— MANOJ KARWASRA (@AAPka_Manojk) July 10, 2025

Skipper Joe Root and Ben Stokes are at crease after end of Day 1

England wrapped up Day 1 of the third Test at 251/4 after 83 overs, with skipper Ben Stokes holding firm at the crease on 39 off 102 balls. Joe Root remained unbeaten on 99 at the other end. Ravindra Jadeja stood out for India, conceding just 26 runs from his 10 overs and claiming the key wicket of Harry Brook, adding control and crucial breakthroughs in the middle session of the day at Lord’s.

Earlier in the day, Nitish Kumar Reddy provided India with a strong start by dismissing both openers—Ben Duckett (23) and Zak Crawley (18)—in the same over. His double strike set England back early. Ollie Pope and Root then steadied the innings with a valuable partnership, but Jadeja broke the stand just after Tea, removing Pope for 44 with the first ball of the session. The match remains well poised heading into Day 2.