Old Trafford: Pant’s Injury Mars India’s Gritty 264/4
Strong Start Under Overcast Skies
India reached 264/4 at stumps on Day 1 of the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, Manchester, on July 23, 2025, after being sent in to bat. Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal (58) and KL Rahul (46) laid a solid foundation with a 94-run partnership.
England’s Afternoon Fightback
The second session saw England claw back with three wickets, dismissing Rahul, Jaiswal, and captain Shubman Gill (12). Ben Stokes (2/47) and Liam Dawson (1/45) capitalized on the seam-friendly conditions.
Pant’s Injury Shifts Momentum
Rishabh Pant, scoring a brisk 37, retired hurt after a Chris Woakes delivery struck his right foot during a reverse sweep, causing swelling and bleeding. He was stretchered off and taken for scans, raising concerns about his series participation.
Sudharsan’s Composed Fifty
Sai Sudharsan anchored the innings with a patient 61 off 151 balls, forging a 72-run stand with Pant. His dismissal late in the day by Stokes left India vulnerable as light deteriorated.
Jadeja and Thakur Hold Firm
Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur, both unbeaten on 19, steadied the innings against spin in fading light. Their cautious approach ensured no further losses before stumps.
England’s Bowling Efforts
Stokes led England’s attack with two wickets, supported by Woakes (1/43) and Dawson (1/45). Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse toiled but remained wicketless under challenging conditions.
Pitch and Conditions
The Old Trafford pitch offered variable bounce and seam movement, favoring bowlers early on. Overcast skies and poor light forced an early end, with spin dominating the final overs.
Pant’s Milestone Amid Setback
Pant became the first visiting wicketkeeper to score 1,000 Test runs in England, achieving the feat with a six off Carse. His injury, however, remains a critical concern for India.
Match Context and Outlook
With England leading the series 2-1, India’s 264/4 keeps the game finely poised. Pant’s potential absence and the new ball on Day 2 will be pivotal.
Strategic Implications
India’s resilience was tested, but their depth, with Washington Sundar to follow, offers hope. England will aim to exploit the new ball and Pant’s absence to gain control.