By The stage is set for a gripping Day 4 at Old Trafford as England hold a commanding 186-run lead over India in the ongoing India vs England 4th Test Day 4 battle. After starting Day 3 on 225/2, the hosts went on to pile up 544/7, thanks to a dominant display led by Joe Root and Ben Stokes, leaving India with plenty to think about as the match heads into its final two days.
Joe Root played one of his finest innings, scoring 150 off 248 balls, in a knock filled with class, patience, and perfect timing. His innings not only anchored England’s dominance but also saw him surpass Ricky Ponting to become the second-highest run-scorer in Test history, trailing only Sachin Tendulkar.
Root’s 38th Test century came under pressure and turned the match on its head. He resumed Day 3 on 11* and built a massive partnership with Ollie Pope, who contributed a solid 71 off 128 balls, as England had a wicketless morning session (107 runs added without loss).
Captain Ben Stokes showed grit and leadership as he remained unbeaten on 77 off 134 balls. Despite suffering cramps late in the day and temporarily retiring hurt at 66, he returned to support the tail and push the score further.
The Root-Stokes stand handled the second new ball with precision, draining the energy out of the Indian bowlers who toiled for 135 overs.
India’s bowlers were made to work hard throughout Day 3. While Ravindra Jadeja (2 wickets) and Washington Sundar (2 wickets) picked up key scalps, they couldn’t apply consistent pressure.
- Jasprit Bumrah bowled 28 overs for 1 wicket
- Mohammed Siraj was expensive, conceding 114 runs in 26 overs
- Debutant Anshul Kamboj managed to get the wicket of Duckett but struggled for control
Where the Match Stands Now
At stumps on Day 3, England finished on 544/7, with a massive lead of 186 runs and three wickets in hand. With Brydon Carse and Jofra Archer still to bat, England may look to score another quick 50–70 runs before declaring, setting India a daunting task with two full days left.
Day 4 Preview – India Under Pressure
Heading into India vs England 4th Test Day 4, all eyes will be on how India respond with the bat in the second innings. The pitch at Old Trafford is still good for batting, but scoreboard pressure and deteriorating bounce could test India’s top order.
Key questions for Day 4:
- Will England declare early and go all-out for a win?
- Can India survive the new-ball burst and bat long to save the match?
- Will the pitch start offering more turn for Dawson and Root?
With Root’s legacy-defining knock and Stokes’ resilience, England have set up a thrilling climax at Old Trafford.
