The 4th Test match between India and England began at Old Trafford, Manchester, with high excitement and some unexpected twists. Day 1 gave fans everything—solid batting, smart bowling, and even a worrying injury. It was a day full of action, setting the tone for a gripping Test ahead.
Toss Drama: England Wins, Chooses to Bowl
In a bit of a surprise, England’s captain Ben Stokes won the toss and decided to bowl first. With cloudy skies and a pitch that offered some early help to bowlers, it looked like a good decision. India’s openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul came in knowing they had a tough job ahead.
Steady Start by Indian Openers
The opening pair started carefully, respecting the good deliveries and punishing the loose ones. KL Rahul looked solid, playing with calmness and control. Jaiswal, as usual, was stylish and confident. They tackled the early overs well against Chris Woakes and Jofra Archer.
However, in the 30th over, KL Rahul was dismissed by Chris Woakes for 46 (98 balls), caught behind by Zak Crawley. It was a crucial wicket for England, but Rahul had done his job by giving India a strong start.
Jaiswal Shines with a Half-Century
Yashasvi Jaiswal continued to bat well and reached his fourth Test fifty. He played some beautiful shots and looked comfortable at the crease. His innings of 58 off 107 balls included 10 boundaries and one big six. Unfortunately, he was out in the 41st over, caught by Harry Brook off Liam Dawson.
Still, his knock gave India a steady base to build upon.
Stokes Strikes Big
Just when things were settling again, Ben Stokes came in and got rid of Shubman Gill. Gill was out LBW for 12 runs to a ball that came in sharply. At that point, India was 140/3 and needed someone to take the innings forward.
Pant’s Quick Knock and Sudden Injury
Rishabh Pant, known for his attacking style, brought fresh energy to the innings. He played a quick and entertaining knock of 37 from 48 balls, with 2 fours and a six. However, things took a bad turn when he was hit on the foot while trying a reverse sweep. Though he survived the LBW review, he looked in pain and eventually had to retire hurt.
This was a big blow to India, as Pant is a key player with both the bat and gloves. His condition will be closely watched on Day 2
Sudharsan Holds the Fort with a Gritty 61
Sai Sudharsan impressed everyone with his calm and confident batting. Coming in during a tricky situation, he showed great patience and technique.
England Bowlers Try Their Best
Ben Stokes was the pick of the bowlers with 2 wickets. Chris Woakes and Liam Dawson took one wicket each. Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse bowled decently but couldn’t break through. The pitch became easier to bat on as the day progressed, which helped India.
Day 1 Highlights:
Jaiswal and Sudharsan score solid fifties
KL Rahul gives a stable start
Rishabh Pant adds quick runs before injury
Pant retires hurt with foot injury
Ben Stokes shines with 2 wickets
India closes Day 1 at 264/4 – a solid position
As Day 2 begins, India will hope Jadeja continues his fine form and takes the score past 400 with help from the lower order. Meanwhile, fans and the team will anxiously wait for an update on Rishabh Pant’s injury. The match is nicely balanced, and the next day could be crucial in deciding who takes the upper hand. Stay tuned!