India Salvages Hard‑Fought Draw in Fourth Test vs England

Manchester — In a gripping final day at Old Trafford, India secured a resilient draw against England in the fourth Test, keeping the five-match series alive at 2–1 in England’s favor.

Despite being bowled out for 358 in their first innings, India faced a monumental 311‑run deficit but then showed remarkable determination. They batted through more than five sessions in their second innings and finished at 425‑4, denying England victory. Key contributions came from captain Shubman Gill (103)—his fourth century of the series—and unbeaten hundreds by Ravindra Jadeja (107)* and Washington Sundar (101).

England, despite a commanding first‑innings total of 669—their fifth‑highest Test score—could not clinch the win due to a lackluster bowling effort.

The match also drew criticism following a controversial handshake incident when England captain Ben Stokes offered a draw with over a session to play. India declined until Jadeja and Sundar reached their respective centuries, creating tension in the final hour.

The series heads to a decider at The Oval next week, where England must avoid defeat to clinch the series, while India aims to level at 2–2.