Old Trafford, Manchester :India mounted a spirited comeback on Day 4 of the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, reaching 174/2 at stumps after a catastrophic start. Shubman Gill led the fightback with an unbeaten 78 and etched his name into the record books by surpassing Virat Kohli’s mark for the most Test runs by an Indian captain in a series against England.
Gill, who now has over 650 runs in the series, also became the first Asian captain to achieve this milestone in England, underlining his stature as the leader of India’s new Test generation.
Early Shock As Woakes Strikes Twice In First Over
England had India on the ropes within the first six balls of the innings. Chris Woakes, with pinpoint accuracy and sharp movement, dismissed both openers — Yashasvi Jaiswal and debutant Sai Sudharsan — for ducks, reducing the visitors to 0/2. The early burst gave England a scent of victory, with a lead of 311 still in hand at that point.
Gill And Rahul Lead India’s Recovery
But what followed was a display of pure resolve and classical Test match batting. Gill and KL Rahul weathered the storm and combined for an unbroken 174-run stand for the third wicket, biding their time and frustrating the English bowlers throughout the afternoon and evening sessions.
Rahul remained unbeaten on 87 from 210 balls, while Gill was steady at 78* off 167. The duo didn’t just steady the ship — they completely shifted the momentum and ensured India ended the day with hope still intact.
England’s Dominance Wanes After Record Innings
Earlier, England had seized control of the match with a mammoth first-innings total of 669 — their highest at Old Trafford since 2014. Ben Stokes was the standout performer, scoring a gritty 141 and becoming the first England captain to notch both a century and a five-wicket haul in the same Test.
With a 311-run lead and early wickets in the bag, England looked poised to wrap up the series. However, the Gill-Rahul resistance has thrown the match wide open ahead of the final day.
Match Poised For Dramatic Finale On Day 5
India still trail by 137 runs heading into Day 5, but their unbroken third-wicket stand gives them a solid platform to push for a draw — or even dream of a miracle.
With England seeking quick wickets and India eyeing survival, the series hangs delicately in the balance. Rain forecasts may also play a factor, potentially helping India extend the game and deny England a win.
The final day promises high drama, tactical intrigue, and a potential turning point in this riveting Test series.
At Stumps – Day 4:
India 174/2 (Rahul 87, Gill 78)**
Trail England by 137 runs
Match Situation:
England lead the five-match series 2-1. A win for England will seal the series. India must bat out Day 5 to keep the series alive heading into the final Test at The Oval.
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