Virat Kohli was a proud captain and had a massive smile on his face as India registered a historic Test win against England at Lord's on Monday to take a 1-0 lead in the 5-match series. Kohli said the tension on the field motivated his players to push for a win at all costs and that is exactly what they did as a charged up Indian team beat England by 151 runs after bowling out the hosts for 120 in just 51.5 overs on the final day.
There was constant sledging throughout the day from the likes of Kohli, James Anderson, Mohammed Siraj, Jos Buttler and Jasprit Bumrah which heated up the atmosphere at the Home of Cricket.
"Super proud of the whole team. The way we stuck to our plans after being put in. The pitch didn't offer much in the first three days. First day was the most challenging. The way we played in the second innings after being put under pressure - Jasprit and Shami were outstanding. We had the belief we can get them out in 60 overs. A bit of tension on the field really motivated us to finish the game," Kohli said before praising Bumrah and Shami for their all-round contributions on the final day.
Shami and Bumrah added 89 crucial runs during an unbroken record 9th-wicket partnership to tilt the scales in India's favour before running through the English batting lineup with the Dukes ball in less than two sessions. "Putting their hand up was something we were really proud of and we wanted to let them know (ovation for Bumrah-Shami). Batting coach has worked really hard with the boys. They have the desire in them to do well for the team. We know how priceless those runs are," Kohli said.
With about a half-hour left of a fractious day featuring regular verbal clashes between players, Mohammed Siraj bowled Jimmy Anderson and celebrated by removing the off stump he had just clattered and wheeling around the outfield in delight at the home of cricket. India declared on 298-8 just after lunch to set England 272 to win in 60 overs. It was a victory target the hosts never intended to chase, but one they couldn’t defend either.
