England and India Battle in Fourth Test at Old Trafford. England and India are facing off in the fourth Test of the five-match series at Old Trafford, Manchester. England captain Ben Stokes won the toss and chose to bowl first.
India posted a total of 358 in their first innings, riding on solid half-centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal (58), debutant Sai Sudharsan (61), and Rishabh Pant (54). Stokes led from the front with the ball, claiming a five-wicket haul.
In response, England’s openers Zak Crawley (84) and Ben Duckett (94) gave their team a flying start, putting together a 166-run partnership. By the end of Day 2, England were well-placed at 225 for 2.
With a commanding start and a strong record at Old Trafford—where they’ve never lost a Test to India—England look in firm control. Out of nine previous Tests between these two sides at this venue, England have won four, while the remaining five have ended in draws.
Old Trafford: England’s Last Test Defeat in Manchester Came in 2019
England have enjoyed a strong record at Old Trafford, Manchester, in recent years, with their last Test defeat at the venue dating back to September 2019. That loss came during the fourth Test of the Ashes series, where Australia outplayed the hosts to win by 185 runs.
Batting first, Australia posted a commanding 497/8 declared, driven by a magnificent double century from Steve Smith (211). England responded with 301 runs in their first innings, thanks to half-centuries from Rory Burns and Joe Root.
Old Trafford: In their second innings, Australia declared at 186/6, setting England a steep target of 383. The English side collapsed for 197, handing Australia a comprehensive win. Pat Cummins starred with the ball, taking four wickets, while Steve Smith was named Player of the Match for his outstanding double hundred.
To date, England have played 84 Test matches in Manchester, winning 33, losing 15, and drawing 36.