Old Trafford Showdown: India Must Win to Keep Series Alive

Manchester – As India and England lock horns in the fourth Test at Old Trafford, the series teeters on a knife-edge. England lead 2–1 in the five‑match contest, following a dramatic 22‑run Lord’s win in Test three. Victory here would give England their first series win over India in seven years.

England’s edge lies in home conditions, bolstered by their aggressive “Bazball” mindset under Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum. The hosts have made one notable change: spinner Liam Dawson returns after Shoaib Bashir’s injury, strengthening their bowling depth.

India, however, are fighting back. In a must-win situation, they’ve brought back their premier bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, and reinforced their batting with Sai Sudharsan and Shardul Thakur.  Former coach Sanjay Bangar described Bumrah’s return as “ammunition” critical for India’s hopes at a ground where they’ve historically struggled.

Day one unfolded as a tense affair. Stokes won the toss and chose to bowl—defying tradition, as no side has ever won at Old Trafford starting with the ball. India battled to 264/4 at stumps, anchored by half-centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan. However, a worrying blow came when Rishabh Pant retired hurt; Michael Vaughan noted that Pant’s injury could swing the match “25% in England’s favor”.

Looking ahead, if India can absorb early pressure and leverage Bumrah’s firepower, the game remains within reach. But England’s disciplined discipline under their revamped strategy makes them favorites to close the series.