Day two of the fourth Test between England and India at Old Trafford, Manchester, saw a compelling battle unfold, with India posting a competitive first-innings total of 358. The visitors, trailing 2-1 in the series, resumed their innings at 264 for 4, aiming to build a substantial lead against an English side keen to press their advantage.
The morning session began with an early setback for India as Ravindra Jadeja, who had been unbeaten overnight on 19, was dismissed for 20 by Jofra Archer with the second new ball. Archer’s delivery angled across Jadeja, finding the outside edge which was sharply caught by Harry Brook at second slip. This brought Shardul Thakur to the crease, who, alongside Washington Sundar, steadied the innings with a valuable 48-run partnership. Thakur, known for his counter-attacking style, scored a brisk 41 runs, while Sundar contributed a watchful 27.
However, the most poignant moment of India’s innings came with the courageous return of Rishabh Pant. Having retired hurt on Day 1 with a fractured metatarsal in his right foot after attempting a reverse sweep, Pant defied expectations by walking out to bat on Day 2, receiving a standing ovation from the Old Trafford crowd. Despite visible discomfort and limited mobility, Pant displayed immense bravery and attacking intent, smashing a vital 54 runs off 75 balls. His innings included a six off Jofra Archer that saw him tie Virender Sehwag’s record for the most sixes (90) by an Indian batsman in Test cricket, a testament to his aggressive approach even under duress. Pant’s valiant effort was eventually ended by Archer, who bowled him with a delivery that nipped away, mirroring his dismissal in the third Test.
England’s captain, Ben Stokes, led his bowling attack with exceptional skill and determination. He was the standout performer, claiming his fifth five-wicket haul in Test cricket (5-72), his first since 2017. Stokes’ impactful spells included the crucial wickets of Washington Sundar, caught at fine leg attempting a pull shot, and debutant Anshul Kamboj, who was dismissed for a duck. Jofra Archer also impressed, finishing with three wickets, consistently troubling the Indian batsmen with his pace and movement. Chris Woakes and Liam Dawson, returning to Test cricket after eight years, each picked up a wicket.
In response to India’s total, England’s openers, Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley, began their first innings cautiously but with intent. Duckett, in particular, started aggressively, quickly moving to 26 runs off just 23 balls, including five boundaries. Crawley remained at the other end, yet to score after facing 14 deliveries. India’s debutant pacer, Anshul Kamboj, shared the new ball with Jasprit Bumrah, who bowled a tight maiden over to start England’s innings. As of the latest update, England stands at 27 for no loss after 6.1 overs, trailing India by 331 runs.
The news from the Indian camp regarding Rishabh Pant’s injury is significant. Scans confirmed a metatarsal fracture, ruling him out for approximately six weeks and effectively ending his participation in the remainder of the series. Dhruv Jurel has taken over wicket-keeping duties for India. Furthermore, with Ishan Kishan also sidelined due to an ankle injury, N Jagadeesan is reportedly being called up as cover for the fifth Test. India also saw other changes for this crucial match, with Sai Sudharsan (61) replacing Karun Nair, and Shardul Thakur coming in for the injured Nitish Kumar Reddy, alongside debutant Anshul Kamboj replacing Akash Deep. For England, Liam Dawson replaced the injured Shoaib Bashir.
The match remains finely poised, with England’s early response setting the stage for an intriguing contest. India will be relying on their bowlers, particularly Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, to make early inroads and exploit any assistance the Old Trafford pitch offers, especially given England’s historical record of never winning a Test at this venue after opting to bowl first. (Times of India, Indian Express, Hindustan Times)
