India’s fourth Test against England in Manchester has taken a dramatic turn, thanks to a resilient and determined stand by Shubman Gill and KL Rahul. At one stage, things looked completely lost for India — after being dismissed cheaply in the first innings and conceding a massive 311-run lead, they were rocked early in their second innings with the loss of both openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and debutant Sai Sudharsan, for zero. At 0 for 2, most viewers, fans, and even experts had written India off, predicting a defeat by an innings. However, Gill and Rahul had other plans. The pair showed incredible discipline, patience, and technical skill to put on an unbeaten 174-run partnership for the third wicket, not only keeping India alive in the match but also restoring pride and belief in the dressing room.
Throughout the series, this young Indian team has had to contend with constant questions about their ability and temperament. The absence of big names like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and R. Ashwin had led to lowered expectations before the first Test. But as the series progressed, India continued to surprise critics — even in defeat, they showed patches of brilliance. The fightback in Birmingham and the tense finish at Lord’s were reminders that this team, despite its flaws, is full of heart. However, Manchester initially seemed like the end of the road. India looked flat, their bowlers lacked bite, and their fielding was uninspired. Jasprit Bumrah, usually their go-to match-winner, was off his game and conceded over 100 runs for the first time in a single innings.
After England piled on 669 runs, thanks to some strong batting and missed chances by India, the visitors’ second innings got off to a nightmarish start. Chris Woakes struck twice in his opening over, leaving India reeling. At lunch on Day 4, the score was 1 for 2, and many felt the Test would be over by the end of the day. But the mood shifted completely as the day wore on. Shubman Gill and KL Rahul defied the English attack, batting through two entire sessions. Their partnership not only saved India from an embarrassing defeat but also kept the series alive heading into Day 5.
Heading into the final day of the Test, there are several factors that could determine whether India can force a draw and carry some momentum into the final match at The Oval. Firstly, much will depend on whether Gill and Rahul can continue their fine form. The ball is now 63 overs old, and the pair must navigate the tricky morning session, particularly before the new ball becomes available after 80 overs. If they can survive that spell, they will give India a fighting chance. The weather may also play a crucial role. While conditions have remained dry so far, rain is forecast through parts of Sunday. Though showers could help India’s chances of drawing the match, overcast conditions might help the English bowlers extract swing and seam.
Another significant development is the potential return of Rishabh Pant to the crease. The wicketkeeper-batter, who played a gritty knock in the first innings despite a fractured toe, is expected to bat again. Pant’s aggressive style and fearless attitude could provide a lift if India finds itself in a tight spot. His inclusion, even at less than full fitness, adds depth and hope to India’s batting lineup. England will also be wondering whether Ben Stokes, their captain and leading wicket-taker in the series, will be fit to bowl. Stokes did not bowl on Day 4 due to cramps, but he has a history of stepping up when it matters most. If he is fit to deliver even a short spell, he could be the difference-maker, especially on a surface that is beginning to show variable bounce.
India’s decision to go with a batting-heavy lineup has come under scrutiny, but it might finally prove to be a smart move. All-rounders like Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Shardul Thakur are more than capable with the bat, and if the top order can lay the foundation, they can be relied upon to occupy the crease and frustrate the English bowlers. A drawn match in Manchester would leave the series at 2–1 and give India one last opportunity at The Oval to square the contest.
While India may not be in a position to win the match, their defiant stand on Day 4 has ensured that the series remains compelling. For fans, Day 5 promises to be a gripping affair — a day where every run and every wicket could swing the balance. India will need grit, focus, and perhaps a touch of luck to survive. But as Gill and Rahul have shown, this Indian side will not go down without a fight.
