The fourth match of the five-Test series was played at Manchester’s Old Trafford ground, a historic venue for Test cricket. India ended the match with a resilient draw, scoring 425/4 on the final day. The result leaves England leading the series 2-1, with the final Test scheduled at The Oval in four days.
First Innings Drama
- India (1st innings): 358 all out (114.1 overs)
- Notable contributions: Yashasvi Jaiswal (58), Sai Sudarshan (61), Rishabh Pant (54)
- England bowling highlight: Ben Stokes took 5 wickets for 72 runs.
- England (1st innings): 669 all out (157.1 overs)
- Major scores: Joe Root (150), Ben Stokes (141), Ben Duckett (94), Zak Crawley (84)
- India bowling highlight: Ravindra Jadeja (4/143), Washington Sundar (2/107)
England took a large first innings lead of 311 runs, creating the expectation of an easy win and series clinch.
India’s Second Innings: A Remarkable Fightback
India lost their openers early, at 0/2, putting them under pressure. However, captain Shubman Gill and KL Rahul steadied the innings with a determined partnership.
- Gill-Rahul partnership: 188 runs off 417 balls
- Individual scores: Rahul (90), Gill (103)
- Gill scored his fourth century of the series, becoming the first Asian batsman to score over 700 runs on an England tour.
- Unbeaten centuries: Ravindra Jadeja (107*) and Washington Sundar (101*) batted together brilliantly to close out the match, preventing England from pursuing victory.
Dramatic Finale
In the final sessions, with India leading by 71 runs and only four wickets down, England captain Ben Stokes offered a draw, which India’s batsmen declined, opting to complete their centuries.
Overall Match Impression
- The match finished with a tense but fair atmosphere, highlighted by some intense exchanges between players.
- The series remains competitive and alive, with England leading 2-1.
- The decisive final Test at The Oval will determine the series winner.
Key Player Performances
| Player | Performance | Notes |
| Shubman Gill | 103 (2nd innings) | 4 centuries in series; 700+ runs in England tour |
| KL Rahul | 90 | Key partner with Gill |
| Ravindra Jadeja | 107* (2nd innings) | Influential unbeaten century |
| Washington Sundar | 101* (2nd innings) | Maiden Test century |
| Ben Stokes | 141 runs & 6 wickets (match) | Player of the Match |
Final Thoughts
This Test epitomizes India’s grit, patience, and resilience. Despite difficult conditions, the team held firm, showcasing that Test cricket demands perseverance and mental strength. With the series still open, all eyes now turn to The Oval for an exciting conclusion.
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