Two days gone, three left, but one could decide it all. With England holding the edge in Manchester, India must fight back fast on Day 3 to stay alive in the series. The game is still open, but the pressure is now on Bumrah, Siraj, and India’s bowlers to deliver.
Crawley and Duckett Gone, But Trouble Remains
Late on Day 2, India got what they needed, quick strikes. Both Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett fell in the final half-hour, sparking hope in the Indian camp. But hope means nothing if it doesn’t turn into control. England still trail by over 130, and Joe Root is set. A few tight overs won’t be enough. India need a collapse.
Series-Defining Morning Session
This isn’t just another day. It’s a series-defining session. At 2–1 down, India must win in Manchester to keep the series alive. Lose here, and ovel becomes a dead rubber. Every over on Friday will count. One spell could swing the momentum. And one dropped chance could kill it.
Also read : Bazball Blitz Wrecks India’s Control as England Roar Back at Old Trafford https://clickingtosports.com/bazball-duckett-crawley-england-take-control-india-4th-test-old-trafford/
India’s Attack Must Fire
Jasprit Bumrah has been India’s trump card all series. But in this Test, he’s yet to strike. Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj must bowl with rhythm, not just pace. Ravindra Jadeja will play his role, but India need more, especially from their fast bowlers. The window is narrow. They must break it open.
England Sensing Glory, India Chasing Grit
England know the situation. Win here, and they win the series. That’s why they’ll come hard on Day 3. Root is settled, Ollie Pope will attack. India have to stay calm but aggressive. No freebies. No soft overs. England have the runs. India need the fight.
India Needs the “Virat Mentality”
Former England skipper Michael Vaughan didn’t hold back when assessing India’s approach heading into Day 3. He said:
“If India want to level this series, they need the Virat mentality – ruthless, aggressive, relentless.”
He’s not wrong. A target above 280 on this surface will be tricky. A score around 240? Still gettable. The third morning will draw that line. India must stay on the right side of it.
Also read :Rishabh Pant should have been timed out’: India wicketkeeper shown no mercy by legends for ‘milking’ his injury https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/rishabh-pant-should-have-been-timed-out-india-wicketkeeper-shown-no-mercy-by-legends-for-milking-his-injury-101753419211471.html
