Day 1 of the fourth Test between India and England at Old Trafford, Manchester, saw a gritty batting display from the visitors after England won the toss and chose to bowl first under cloudy skies. India ended the day at 264 for 4 in 83 overs, with a solid platform laid by the top order despite England’s persistent bowling efforts.
Yashasvi Jaiswal continued his fine run with the bat, scoring a fluent 58 that included ten boundaries and a six. His stroke play was confident and composed as he navigated the early movement of the English pacers with maturity. He formed a key partnership with Sai Sudharsan, who impressed with a composed 61. Sudharsan’s knock included some elegant drives and a calm temperament that suggested a bright future at the international level. However, his innings ended just after reaching his fifty, giving England a breakthrough when he looked set for a bigger score.
The innings suffered a minor setback when Rishabh Pant was forced to retire hurt after scoring 37. The left-hander was struck on the foot by a sharp delivery from Chris Woakes and had to leave the field in visible discomfort. His aggressive approach until that point had helped maintain momentum in the middle overs.
Ben Stokes was the standout bowler for England, using the conditions expertly to pick up two crucial wickets. Chris Woakes and Liam Dawson chipped in with one wicket apiece, helping to slow India’s scoring rate through the middle session. England’s bowling attack kept things tight but failed to capitalize on a few close chances that could have tilted the day further in their favor.
By stumps, Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur were holding the fort for India. Jadeja looked calm and composed, while Thakur showed resilience under pressure in the closing stages of the day. With Pant’s fitness still uncertain, India will hope this pair can build a strong partnership on Day 2 to push the score beyond 350.
