🇮🇳 India vs England 4th Test 2025: Incredible Draw at Old Trafford
Cricket fans were treated to a classic at Old Trafford, where the 4th Test match between India and England (23–27 July 2025) ended in a thrilling draw. The game had everything—massive centuries, heroic comebacks, stunning bowling spells, and a twist-filled final day that will be remembered for years.
🏏 Match Summary
| Team | 1st Innings | 2nd Innings | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| England | 669 | Did not bat | Match drawn |
| India | 358 | 425/4 declared |
- Series Status: England leads 2–1
- Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
- Match Days: 23–27 July 2025
🔥 England’s Dominance in the First Innings
England dominated early, racking up a massive 669 runs. Led by Ben Stokes’ masterful 141, the English lineup tormented Indian bowlers with their patient and aggressive stroke play. Contributions from other batters like Joe Root (86) and Harry Brook (77) added fuel to the fire.
This was England's 5th-highest total in Test history, leaving India in a precarious position.
🇮🇳 India Crumbles Under Pressure
India’s reply in the first innings was lackluster, with the team folding for 358. Apart from KL Rahul’s fighting 82, no batter stood tall against the sharp English pace and spin combination. With a 311-run deficit, India was forced to follow on—a rare scenario in modern cricket.
💪 India’s Historic Fightback
India’s second innings was a tale of sheer resilience. The start was horrendous—0/2 after losing both openers. But Shubman Gill’s composed 103, combined with KL Rahul’s 90, laid the foundation for a historic revival.
The final day saw the heroes emerge:
- Ravindra Jadeja scored a patient and stylish 107 not out*
- Washington Sundar achieved his maiden Test century (101)*
The duo batted through pressure, short balls, sledging, and even a mid-match handshake offer from Stokes to settle for a draw. But India wasn’t done—they pushed on, celebrated centuries, and reminded the world of their grit.
🎯 Ben Stokes' Fiery Spell
England skipper Ben Stokes produced a 5-wicket haul (5/72), his first in 8 years. His captaincy decisions, including clever field placements and bowling changes, tested India every hour. However, the pitch flattened out on Day 5, and Indian batters capitalized.
📊 Key Performers
🏆 Top Batters
- Ben Stokes (ENG) – 141 (1st innings)
- Shubman Gill (IND) – 103 (2nd innings)
- Ravindra Jadeja (IND) – 107* (2nd innings)
- Washington Sundar (IND) – 101* (2nd innings)
🎯 Top Bowlers
- Ben Stokes (ENG) – 5/72
- James Anderson (ENG) – 2 wickets in both innings
- Jasprit Bumrah (IND) – 3/89 (1st innings)
⚖️ Turning Points
- England’s 669 created scoreboard pressure.
- India lost 2 wickets for 0 runs in their second innings.
- Jadeja and Sundar’s 221-run partnership turned the tide.
- Stokes' offer to call it a draw—refused by India—showed their intent.
🌍 What This Means for the Series
With England leading 2–1, the final Test at The Oval becomes a virtual final. India can still square the series, and after this display of courage, momentum may well be on their side.
🗓️ Upcoming Test: Oval, London
- Date: Starts Early August 2025
- Series Scenario:
- England needs at least a draw to win the series
- India must win to level it 2–2
📝 Final Thoughts
The India vs England 4th Test 2025 wasn’t just a game—it was a lesson in mental strength, comeback ability, and the magic of Test cricket. Whether you're Team India or Team England, there’s no denying this match will be archived in cricketing history.