India showcased resilience and intent on Day 2 of the 4th Test against England at Old Trafford, posting a formidable 358 in their first innings with debutant Sai Sudharsan (61), Yashasvi Jaiswal (58), and vice-captain Rishabh Pant (54) leading the charge.
Resuming at 264/4, India managed to add 94 runs through disciplined batting and flashes of brilliance. The highlight of the innings came from injured Rishabh Pant, who showcased finesse and aggression en route to a 54-run knock off 75 deliveries. His counterattack briefly shifted momentum before Jofra Archer shattered his stumps with a sharp in-swinger.
Ben Stokes proved pivotal for England, claiming a majestic five-wicket haul, dismantling India’s middle and lower order with short-pitched precision. His aggressive line forced errors from India’s batsmen, particularly in overcast conditions that favoured seamers.
As rain interrupted proceedings just before lunch, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj held fort, adding gritty tail-end resistance that frustrated English bowlers. With play slated to resume by evening, fans eagerly await England’s response on a pitch that’s starting to show signs of wear.
