The first Test between India and England at Headingley is finely poised after three days of fluctuating fortunes. While India began strongly, their grip loosened due to costly errors in the field and some inconsistent bowling, allowing England to stay very much alive in the contest.

India's first innings total of 471 looked imposing, particularly after centuries from Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant. However, England responded resiliently, riding on Ollie Pope's century and a stunning 99 from Harry Brook to reach 465, falling just six runs short of India's total. Jasprit Bumrah was the standout performer for India, bagging a five-wicket haul, but he lacked consistent support from the other bowlers. Prasidh Krishna, despite picking up three wickets, proved expensive, and Mohammed Siraj also struggled with his line and length.

England's innings was defined by reprieves, with Harry Brook enjoying a particularly charmed life. He was dropped on 46 and 82, adding salt to India's wounds. These missed opportunities proved costly, allowing England to reduce the deficit significantly. Several other catches were also put down, contributing to a sense of frustration for the Indian team.

India's second innings started shakily, with Yashasvi Jaiswal falling early. Sai Sudharsan, the debutant, showed promise but was dismissed by Ben Stokes after a 66-run partnership with KL Rahul. Rahul, however, looked solid and composed, reaching an unbeaten 47. At stumps on Day 3, India were 90 for 2, with a lead of 96 runs.

Several factors contributed to England's resurgence. Their batsmen capitalized on the dropped catches, and the Indian bowlers struggled to maintain consistent pressure. The short-ball strategy employed by India proved to be a double-edged sword, as while it did lead to some wickets, it also allowed England's batsmen to score freely at times. The partnership between Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse also proved crucial in narrowing the deficit.

Looking ahead to Day 4, the match hangs in the balance. India will need to bat well to set England a challenging target. KL Rahul's form is encouraging, and Shubman Gill will need to convert his start into a substantial score. The weather forecast suggests grey skies, which could favor the bowlers. India's bowlers will need to be more disciplined and take their chances if they are to regain control of the match. England, on the other hand, will be looking to exploit any further errors from India and put themselves in a position to chase down the target.