Headingley: The first Test between India and England is poised on a knife’s edge, with the final session of Day Five promising high drama. At tea, England require 102 runs from 37.3 overs, with India clawing their way back into contention thanks to a fiery burst from Shardul Thakur.

Having had a quiet outing for most of the match, Thakur roared to life in the second innings with two quick wickets in as many deliveries, flipping the script and reigniting Indian hopes. His first strike came against the in-form Ben Duckett, who was threatening to take the game away single-handedly.

Duckett, who produced a masterclass with his 149 off 170 balls, finally fell to a full-pitched delivery outside off. Attempting a flowing drive, he mistimed it slightly, sending the ball in the air towards short extra cover. Substitute fielder Nitish Reddy flung himself to his left and completed a brilliant low catch — a moment of pure athleticism that gave India a crucial opening.

Just one ball later, Thakur struck again — this time removing Harry Brook for a golden duck. A good-length delivery down leg side lured Brook into a loose flick. As he shuffled across, he got a faint touch, and Rishabh Pant, alert and agile, completed a fine diving catch to his left. Brook, who had scored a stylish 99 in the first innings, managed only a wry smile as he departed.

The double strike sparked visible energy in the Indian camp, with fielders rallying around their bowler. Thakur, animated and aggressive, has turned what looked like an inevitable England victory into a tense battle of nerves.

With the pitch still offering something for both batters and bowlers and plenty of overs left in the day, the Headingley crowd is set for a grandstand finish. All eyes are now on the final session — can England hold their nerve, or will India script a stunning comeback?