The captivating rivalry between the India National Cricket Team and the England Cricket Team continues to enthral fans globally. As the high-stakes five-match Test series progresses, each contest has been a display of grit, drama, and elite cricketing skill. With England leading 2–1, the pivotal India vs England 4th Test at Old Trafford, Manchester, is now on Day 3 and proving to be a potential series decider.
Today’s Match: 4th Test, Day 3 at Old Trafford
England, leading the series 2–1, looks set to take a commanding lead in this crucial India vs England 4th Test. After bowling India out for 358, England’s openers provided a blistering start on Day 2, significantly reducing the deficit.
Live Score Update (Current Play, Day 3):
- England: 252 for 2 (54.5 overs) – Trailing India (358) by 106 runs
- Ollie Pope: 30 not out (62 balls)
- Joe Root: 24 not out (60 balls)
England resumed Day 3 with Ollie Pope and Joe Root at the crease, continuing to build on their strong position. They have forged a solid partnership, further cementing England’s advantage. Earlier on Day 2, Ben Duckett (94) and Zak Crawley (84) put on a formidable 166-run opening stand, setting the tone for England’s dominance. Ben Stokes claimed a five-wicket haul to help bowl out India. Rishabh Pant’s valiant 54, scored despite a fractured foot, was a highlight for India.
Key Match Events:
- Ben Stokes’ Five-wicket Haul: The England captain’s 5/72 was instrumental in wrapping up India’s first innings for 358.
- England’s Dominant Opening Stand: Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley’s 166-run partnership put immense pressure on India’s bowling attack.
- Rishabh Pant’s Valiant Fifty: Pant batted with a broken foot on Day 2, showcasing immense courage to reach his half-century.
- Anshul Kamboj’s Maiden Wicket: The debutant pacer claimed his first Test scalp by dismissing Ben Duckett.
- Joe Root’s Milestone: Joe Root has now completed 1000 Test runs at Old Trafford, becoming the first batter to do so.
Weather Update: The skies are mostly cloudy in Manchester today with a low chance of rain (10% during the day). Conditions are generally favorable for cricket, with temperatures around 20°C.
Series Recap: England Edged Ahead at Lord’s
In the previous clash — the third Test at Lord’s — England pulled off a thrilling 22-run victory, showcasing remarkable resilience and smart cricket. The match saw both sides score 387 in their first innings, but England’s bowling and fielding brilliance in the second innings proved decisive.
Lord’s 3rd Test Scorecard:
First Innings
- England: 387 all out (112 overs)
- India: 387 all out (119.2 overs)
Second Innings
- England: 192 all out (62.1 overs)
- India: 170 all out (74.5 overs)
Player of the Match: Ben Stokes, for his all-round performance and a game-changing run-out.
Players to Watch: Form and Firepower
Both sides bring in exciting names and proven performers:
- England: Ben Stokes (captain), Joe Root, and Jofra Archer
- India: KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah (returned today), and Mohammed Siraj
Anshul Kamboj: Official Test Debut
A significant moment for Indian cricket in this India vs England series is the Test debut of Anshul Kamboj, the 24-year-old Haryana pacer. Kamboj was added to the squad as a replacement after injuries ruled out Arshdeep Singh and Nitish Kumar Reddy. Known for his upright seam, disciplined spells, and aggressive mindset, Kamboj’s inclusion has been hailed as a bold and promising move. He has already picked up his first Test wicket.
What’s at Stake in the India vs England Series?
- England leads the series 2–1. A win here would secure the series on home soil.
- India must win to stay alive and push for a decider in the fifth and final Test.
The focus is on how India’s bowling attack — Kamboj, Bumrah, and Siraj — performs in English conditions and whether their batting lineup can respond to England’s strong position. The India vs England 4th Test is set for a gripping finish.