India hold on at Old Trafford with centuries from Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, keeping the series alive at 2–1

At Old Trafford, the fourth Test between India and England finished in a gripping draw. England had dominated the early days, but India fought back on the final two with courage and grit. The partnership between Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar not only saved the Test but also ensured India stayed alive in the series heading into the decider.


Pant’s Courage Inspires India

India’s first innings ended at 358, and the highlight came from Rishabh Pant, who returned to bat despite a fractured toe. His brave 54 off 75 balls lifted the dressing room’s spirits and set the tone for India’s fight, even as others struggled to build big scores.

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England Pile on the Runs

England seized control with a massive batting effort. Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley opened with a 166-run stand, taking the attack to India. Joe Root hammered a record-breaking 150, while captain Ben Stokes, still battling injury, added 141 in trademark style. By the time England all out at 669, they held a daunting 311-run lead, leaving India staring at defeat.


Woakes Strikes Twice, Hope Fades

India’s second innings started in chaos. Chris Woakes dismissed Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan for ducks in the very first over. With two full days left, India were already in deep trouble. Fans back home began to lose hope, many switching off their TVs fearing a repeat collapse.

Rahul and Gill Steady the Ship

But then came calm. KL Rahul and Shubman Gill absorbed pressure with defensive resilience. England searched for breakthroughs, but Rahul’s composure and Gill’s poise carried India to 174 for 2 at stumps on Day 4.

The next morning, Ben Stokes trapped Rahul lbw, ending his long vigil(90 off 230). Gill, however, completed his fourth century of the series with elegant stroke play before edging Archer to the keeper gloves on 103. With Pant unable to bat, Ravindra Jadeja joined Washington Sundar with India still under heavy pressure.


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