India fights back after early setbacks in must-win Test.
The much-awaited fourth Test between India and England kicked off today at Old Trafford, Manchester, and right from the first ball, it was clear this match means business. With England leading the five-match series 2–1, this Test is nothing short of do-or-die for India. And Day 1 gave us plenty to talk about: a decent batting show, a strong opening stand, and a big injury concern that could shake things up.
Let’s break it all down.
England chooses to bowl first: A bold move.
Ben Stokes won the toss and put India in to bat under cloudy skies — a classic English move. The pitch had some life early on, and with overcast conditions, England was hoping to capitalise on the swing-friendly atmosphere.
India, on the other hand, knew what was at stake. They needed a solid start to settle nerves, and that’s exactly what they got.
Jaiswal and Rahul lay the foundation.
Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul walked out with purpose. The pair showed patience and class, playing out tricky overs and slowly building a steady partnership. Their understanding was clear, and for nearly 30 overs, they kept the England bowlers at bay.
Jaiswal impressed once again with a composed 58, while Rahul was fluent for his 46 before getting caught behind. Together, they stitched a crucial 94-run opening stand that gave India just the kind of start they were hoping for.
Middle-order tests, but Sudharsan steps up
After the openers fell, the middle order had to steady the ship. Shubman Gill couldn’t convert his start, and there were some nervy moments. But Sai Sudharsan, playing in just his second Test, showed maturity beyond his years.
He made a composed 61, keeping the scoreboard ticking and frustrating the English bowlers with clean footwork and well-placed shots. With every run, he looked more and more at home in international whites.
Rishabh Pant retires hurt: A moment of concern.
Just when things were looking settled, a worrying moment struck. Rishabh Pant, who was building a typically aggressive innings, was hit on the foot by a yorker from Chris Woakes. He tried to walk it off but eventually had to retire hurt on 37, visibly in pain.
Pant’s injury was serious enough for the physios to take him off the field in an ambulance. His availability for the rest of the match — and possibly the series — is now in doubt. This could be a big blow, considering his role as both wicketkeeper and aggressive finisher.
Jadeja and Shardul hold firm at stumps.
By the end of Day 1, India had reached 264 for 4, with Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur unbeaten at the crease. The partnership is still new, but with both known for their resilience and grit, India will hope they can stretch the total well past 350 on Day 2.
Why this Test matters more than ever
This isn’t just another match in the series — this is India’s chance to level things up before the final Test. With the series currently 2–1 in England’s favor, a loss here would hand the hosts the trophy. But a win would take it to a thrilling decider.
There’s also the bigger picture: the World Test Championship. Every win counts toward the final rankings, and both teams are aware of this.
The Duke’s ball debate: Soft again?
Interestingly, Day 1 also reignited the debate around the quality of the Duke’s cricket ball. Multiple players have complained that it softens too early, often within 30 overs, taking the sting out of fast bowling. While it’s not new, this match might finally push the authorities to take a closer look.
What to expect on Day 2?
All eyes will be on:
- Rishabh Pant’s injury update
- India’s middle and lower-order batting
- Whether Jadeja and Shardul can push the total to a match-winning level
- And if Jasprit Bumrah, who might return to the XI, will make an impact with the ball
The stage is set. The pressure is on. And Day 2 could be the turning point in this tight, high-stakes series.
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