On Day 4 at Lord's, during the second session, India's energetic speed attack sustained a concerning temporary setback when fast bowler Akash After bowling only three overs following lunch, Deep limped off the field. After his brief stint in the second innings, the 28-year-old seamer, who had previously achieved a significant breakthrough by cleaning up Harry Brook with a sharp inswinger, appeared noticeably at ease.

Akash Deep was seen walking cautiously towards the boundary, clutching what looked to be his groin or side, after he bowled his third over of the afternoon session. The team physio treated him after he took a seat next to the ropes. Soon after, with a distinct limp, he ascended the stairs in the direction of the dressing room, raising fears about a potential strain.

On the broadcast, Michael Atherton validated the pain by saying, "Akash Deep, who was with the physio on the boundary, holding his side or hip, groin as well. Walking gingerly up there on the stairs."

But after the drinks break, the bowler went back to the pitch.

If the injury had been severe, it could have been devastating for India, who had gained control of the Test with controlled, quick bowling in gloomy conditions. With the dismissal of Brook, who had appeared dangerous with a barrage of offensive blows, Akash had been instrumental in breaking England's momentum.

Since India is attempting to end England's second innings as soon as possible, his absence would have placed a greater responsibility on Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and all-rounders like Nitish Reddy and Ravindra Jadeja.

Siraj excels in the opening session

Earlier in the day, Bumrah and Siraj maintained the pressure on England on a worsening pitch by bowling with ferocity. With a scorching send-off, Siraj removed Ben Duckett and then struck again with Ollie Pope's wicket. Prior to Nitish Reddy dismissing the opener for the second time in the game, Bumrah's threatening spell gave Crawley a headache.

Joe Root and Ben Stokes held the fort as England broke for lunch at 98/4.

In what was essentially a second-innings game at Lord's, both teams had finished the first innings with the same score of 387.

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