The fourth Test between India and England at Old Trafford is turning into a compelling contest. After India posted 358 in their first innings, England mounted a strong reply on Day 2, ending at 225/2, trailing by just 133 runs with eight wickets in hand.
Pant’s Gritty Fifty Amid Injury
India’s innings was highlighted by a brave performance from Rishabh Pant, who scored a valiant 54 despite battling a fractured toe. His return to the crease, even while nursing the injury, earned praise across the cricketing world. While Pant couldn’t keep wickets, his contributions with the bat ensured India reached a competitive total.
England’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Ben Stokes, who registered figures of 5 for 72, and Jofra Archer, who chipped in with three wickets. India’s middle and lower order offered sporadic resistance, but Stokes’ incisive spells broke their rhythm.
Duckett and Crawley Dominate Indian Bowlers
England’s reply was nothing short of dominant. Openers Ben Duckett (94) and Zak Crawley (84) put on a massive 166-run partnership that took the wind out of India’s sails. Both batters played with control and confidence, targeting loose deliveries and maintaining a brisk scoring rate.
Duckett narrowly missed out on a century, falling to Anshul Kamboj, who celebrated his maiden Test wicket. Crawley was later dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja, but by then, England had already taken control of the innings.
At stumps on Day 2, Ollie Pope (20)* and Joe Root (11)* were at the crease, steering England towards a potential first-innings lead.
India’s Bowling Draws Criticism
India’s bowling effort on Day 2 came under scrutiny. Several experts and former cricketers criticized the team’s tactical execution. The pace attack lacked consistency, while field placements failed to build pressure. Observers noted that India’s bowlers allowed England’s openers too much freedom, effectively negating the momentum Pant had given with his innings.
With the series on the line, questions are now being raised about leadership decisions and on-field strategies. Captain Shubman Gill was particularly under the spotlight for not attacking enough when Duckett and Crawley were settling in.
Day 2 Summary
| Team | Score | Key Performers |
| India (1st Inn) | 358 all out | Rishabh Pant 54, Stokes 5/72, Archer 3 wickets |
| England (1st Inn) | 225/2 (stumps) | Duckett 94, Crawley 84, Kamboj & Jadeja 1 wicket each |
What to Expect on Day 3
With England trailing by only 133 runs and eight wickets in hand, they are well-placed to take a decisive lead. The pitch is still favorable for batting, but if India can make early inroads on the third day, the game could swing back in their favor.
Key to India’s comeback will be early breakthroughs and more disciplined bowling. The spinners, especially Jadeja, will play a crucial role as the pitch begins to wear.
Key Takeaways:
- Rishabh Pant’s fifty was the emotional high point of Day 2, showing immense grit under physical distress.
- Duckett and Crawley’s 166-run partnership laid the foundation for a strong English response.
- India’s bowlers lacked consistency and aggression, leading to tactical criticism from cricketing experts.
- England are in a commanding position, and Day 3 could determine whether they tighten their grip on the series.
India will need a sharp, aggressive approach with the ball on Day 3 to keep their hopes alive in the series. Early wickets and smarter field setups will be essential.
Photo Source: NDTV Sports
