Manchester, July 23, 2025 — The intensity of the India vs England Test series reached new heights on Day 1 of the fourth Test at Old Trafford. All eyes were on India captain Shubman Gill, especially after his strong remarks on the ‘Spirit of the Game’ in the previous match. But the crowd and England’s captain Ben Stokes had other plans.
Gill’s Short Stay and Fiery Exit
Shubman Gill, who had openly criticised England’s approach during the third Test, was under pressure to deliver. However, his innings lasted just 12 runs. Misjudging a sharp incoming delivery from Ben Stokes, Gill chose not to offer a shot and was trapped plumb in front. What followed was a heated, aggressive send-off from Stokes and loud boos from the English crowd.
This moment marked a dramatic turn in the game and reflected the tension between the two captains — one who spoke his mind, and another who responded on the field.
Top-Order Cracks After Steady Start
Earlier, openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal gave India a promising start, steering them to 78 without loss at lunch. Chris Woakes finally broke through after lunch, getting Rahul (46) caught at third slip with a delivery that seamed away.
Yashasvi Jaiswal, who looked well set at 58 off 107 balls, fell to debutant Liam Dawson. Expecting more turn, he edged to first slip after the ball went straight on.
In a surprising move, Sai Sudharsan replaced Karun Nair at No. 3. Though cautious at first, Sudharsan showed flashes of class with flicks off Jofra Archer and a sweet cover drive off Dawson. He survived a crucial moment when Jamie Smith dropped him down the leg side off Ben Stokes while he was on 20.
England’s Tactical Precision and Aggression
England’s bowlers executed their plans smartly. Woakes bowled a tight off-stump channel in his opening spell, testing both openers. Though the pitch lacked pace and bounce, he consistently beat the bat and induced false strokes.
Stokes, on the other hand, ignored the Old Trafford trend where no team has ever won batting second. His aggressive leadership was clear in the field placements and personal intensity — especially in his reactions.
The English attack also tried a deliberate leg-side ploy against Sudharsan, targeting a perceived weakness based on his dismissal in Leeds.
India’s Early Gains Undone by Afternoon Collapse
Despite the strong 78-run opening stand, India lost three wickets in quick succession before tea, ending the session at 149 for 3. With Sudharsan (26*) and Rishabh Pant (3*) at the crease, India will hope to rebuild under pressure.
The pitch seemed dry and slow, with variable seam movement but little bounce. It looked like a good toss to lose for India — until England’s bowlers turned the momentum in their favor post-lunch.
Conclusion
The fourth Test began with tension, talking points, and tactical battles. Gill’s early dismissal and the crowd’s response reflected how narratives beyond the scoreboard shape modern Test cricket. England, led by a fiery Ben Stokes, made sure to respond not just with the ball — but with attitude.
The coming days of this match promise drama, grit, and possibly a turning point in the series.
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