Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Is a Great Showcase for Test Cricket: Anil Kumble

New Delhi: Despite India’s narrow 22-run defeat at Lord’s, former India captain Anil Kumble hailed the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy as a shining example of why Test cricket remains thrilling and relevant. With England now leading the five-match series 2-1, Kumble praised the competitive spirit displayed by both sides.

After a five-wicket loss in the first Test at Leeds, India bounced back strongly in the second match with disciplined bowling and improved fielding, eventually dismissing England for 271 on the final day and sealing a convincing win with more than a session to spare.

However, in the third Test at Lord’s, England edged out India in a nail-biting finish, securing a 22-run victory on the final day to take a 2-1 lead in the series.

“This series has been a brilliant advertisement for Test cricket,” said Kumble during a broadcast on JioHostar. “All three Tests have gone right down to the wire, with both teams fighting hard. The 2-1 scoreline in England’s favor doesn’t tell the whole story—if you break it down session by session, it’s been very even.”

He added that India should feel optimistic heading into the remaining two Tests: “They’ve already bounced back once after a loss. This match came down to fine margins—like Pant’s run-out before lunch, a few extra runs conceded, and letting players like Jamie Smith and Brydon Carse score freely. India needs to seize such moments if they want to level the series.”

Kumble noted that the defeat at Lord’s was India’s fourth-narrowest loss in Test history in terms of runs. Recalling India’s 12-run loss to Pakistan in Chennai in 1999—where he played a key role—Kumble saw echoes of that heartbreak.

“I was reminded of that 12-run loss in Chennai. The feeling was similar. Just 22 runs. Jadeja was left stranded after almost pulling off a sensational chase. England held their nerve well. That over from Jofra Archer before the end probably rattled Siraj a bit. The pressure increased with the silly point coming in,” he said.

“India had a real chance to script history here. But even in defeat, there are many positives to take forward,” Kumble concluded.

With inputs from IANS