England Dominates Day 2 Against India in Fourth Test

In a gripping encounter at Old Trafford, Manchester, England ended the second day of the fourth Test against India with a commanding position. Despite Rishabh Pant’s valiant half-century, India found themselves on the backfoot as England’s openers, Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley, forged a formidable 166-run partnership. By the end of play, England had reached 225/2, trailing India’s first innings total of 358 by just 133 runs.

Strong Start by England Openers

The Ben Stokes-led England team began their innings with confidence. Duckett and Crawley resumed from 77/0 in the third session, both looking solid at the crease. Duckett reached his fifty with a boundary off Shardul Thakur, marking the team’s hundred. Crawley soon followed, completing his half-century in style.

Criticism of Shubman Gill’s Captaincy

Former England captain Nasser Hussain expressed dissatisfaction with Shubman Gill’s captaincy decisions. He criticized the Indian bowlers for their poor line and length and questioned the decision to give debutant Anshul Kamboj the new ball over experienced bowler Mohammed Siraj. Hussain suggested that Siraj should have been utilized differently to exploit the pitch conditions better.

Key Dismissals and Partnerships

England lost their first wicket at 166 when Ravindra Jadeja dismissed Crawley for 84. Duckett fell short of a century, dismissed for 94 by Kamboj, who claimed his maiden Test wicket. The team crossed the 200-run mark with Ollie Pope and Joe Root building an unbeaten partnership of 28 runs by stumps.

India’s Struggles with the Ball

India’s bowlers struggled to contain the English batsmen. Kamboj and Jadeja managed to take one wicket each, but their efforts were overshadowed by England’s dominant batting display.

Rishabh Pant’s Heroics in Vain

Earlier in the day, Rishabh Pant showcased resilience by scoring a crucial half-century despite battling discomfort. His efforts helped India reach a respectable total before being bowled out for 358. However, his hard-earned runs seemed to be handed back to England as they took control of the match.

As the match progresses, India will need to regroup and strategize effectively to regain momentum against a confident English side.