The penultimate day of the clash between the Three Lions and the Men in Blue provided a series of thrilling moments for the home team at the venue in Manchester. Following an increase to their lead, extending it beyond the 300-run mark, the English team enjoyed an ideal beginning, highlighted by a remarkable performance from their premier bowler, Chris Woakes, who showcased his skill right from the start of India’s second batting display.
Chris Woakes achieves double breakthrough in the initial set of six deliveries, leading to an early setback for India on Day 4
The Indian batsmen entered the field under significant strain, facing a formidable target on a playing surface that had begun to greatly favour the bowling side. The English pace bowlers acted swiftly to capitalize on the pitch’s unpredictable bounce and movement.
Woakes immediately established dominance, dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal in the very first set of balls. The left-handed batter, after adjusting his stance, attempted a gentle push but was outmaneuvered by the ball’s deviation. It caught the edge, directing it to first slip, where Joe Root initially struggled but then securely completed the catch on his second try. The subsequent delivery intensified India’s troubles as newcomer Sai Sudharsan, hesitant to either engage or avoid the ball, was caught off guard by an unexpected bounce. It grazed the underside of his bat and went to slip, where Harry Brook made a clean catch. With two wickets down in the initial five balls—and India yet to score—England secured a perfect beginning, reinforcing their advantage.
Here’s the footage:
TWO IN TWO!
Nicked straight to Harry Brook. WHAT A START! 🤯
🇮🇳 0️⃣-2️⃣ pic.twitter.com/qbokPo7iKj
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 26, 2025
England Seize Control at Old Trafford
England currently holds a commanding position in this critical match held at Old Trafford. Following Root’s impressive batting performance on Day 3, captain Ben Stokes stepped up, delivering a century that set records, further extending the difference between the two teams. Stokes, along with Brydon Carse, launched a powerful offensive against the Indian bowlers during the initial session of Day 4, leaving the visiting team struggling.
Meanwhile, India’s bowling efforts seemed largely ineffective. Jasprit Bumrah, though slightly out of form, still managed to secure two wickets but lacked his usual sharpness. Ravindra Jadeja was the standout performer with the ball, achieving a four-wicket haul, which applied some degree of pressure on England’s lower order. Now, the responsibility lies with India’s batsmen to provide stability and withstand the English attack. With more than four sessions remaining, England is heavily favored to win.
