Gill’s Record Ton Ignites India vs. England Manchester Test

  • July 27, 2025

The eagerly awaited fourth Test between England and India at Manchester’s Old Trafford, which commenced on July 23, 2025, has transformed into a compelling showdown characterized by impressive batting displays and fierce strategic contests. England had carved out a significant advantage by amassing a substantial 669 in their initial innings, a score fueled by pivotal performances including a remarkable 150 from Joe Root. India, trailing by a formidable 311 runs following their first innings total of 358, seemed to be facing an uphill battle. However, the tenacity of India’s captain Shubman Gill on Day 5 shifted the momentum, as his splendid century under duress not only garnered extensive acclaim from supporters but also guided the match toward a tightly contested stalemate.

Shubman Gill’s gritty century against England on Day 5

Gill’s performance on the final day of the Test was a radiant illustration of prowess, resolve, and leadership amidst adversity. Spending 238 deliveries at the crease, Gill meticulously structured his innings to attain 103 runs, punctuated by 12 boundaries. This fourth century of the series propelled Gill into the esteemed circle of legends such as Don Bradman and Sunil Gavaskar, establishing him as only the third captain in Test annals to notch four centuries in a single series. It was an endurance-filled innings that emphasized steadfast defense and calculated shot selection against England’s formidable pace attack, notably the intense spells from Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer. Gill’s composure was particularly noteworthy given India’s early setbacks in the second innings where openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan were dismissed without registering a score, and KL Rahul‘s resolute effort with 90 runs from 230 balls before his dismissal.

Gill’s partnership with Rahul, which yielded 188 runs, proved instrumental in fortifying the innings. Even after Rahul’s departure, Gill sustained India’s aspirations, contributing to diminishing England’s commanding lead and reducing it to below 100 runs. His innings was not one of extravagant strokes but rather one of strategic fortitude—a quintessential captain’s demonstration tailored to avert defeat and strive for a draw in a challenging circumstance.

Also WATCH: Shubman Gill struck by Ben Stokes’ brutal delivery on Day 5 of Manchester Test

Here’s how fans reacted:

India’s critical position and the battle for survival against England in the Fourth Test

Throughout the duration of this Test, India’s stance was precarious against a commanding English contingent. England’s substantial 669 on Day 3, accentuated by numerous significant contributions, imposed a daunting task upon India. Answering with 358 in the first innings, India still trailed by 311 runs—a shortfall that unveiled the challenge looming ahead. Early into the second innings, India’s top order faltered with two ducks from the opening duo, subjecting the middle order to immense strain. The host nation’s bowlers, spearheaded by Stokes (5 wickets) and Archer (3 wickets), adeptly capitalized on the conditions.

By lunch on Day 5, India were at 223 for 4, still behind by 88 runs. With efforts from Washington Sundar (21 not out) and Ravindra Jadeja persisting, the team endeavored to salvage honor and avert a decisive loss. The pitch had begun to decelerate, and England also encountered the possibility of insufficient time to pursue a victory, swaying the match toward an anticipated draw.

Also WATCH: Ben Stokes’ roaring celebration after dismissing KL Rahul at 90 on Day 5 of Manchester Test

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