Pant’s Injury Slows India’s Momentum India’s progress on the opening day of the fourth Test against England was hampered by Rishabh Pant’s injury, as the visitors ended day one at 4-264 in their first innings, striving to stay alive in the thrilling five-match series.
With England aiming to secure a series-clinching victory at Old Trafford before the final match, skipper Ben Stokes won the toss on Wednesday morning and chose to bowl under cloudy Manchester skies.
Despite the conditions, India’s opening duo of KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal confidently navigated the morning session, guiding the team to 78 without loss by lunch.
However, the tide turned in England’s favor during the second session as they claimed three wickets for just 36 runs, including the crucial dismissal of Indian captain Shubman Gill.
Spinner Liam Dawson, making a Test return after several years, claimed his first wicket in eight years when Jaiswal fell for 58.
“It feels great to contribute again,” said the 35-year-old Dawson. “At this age, I honestly thought my Test days were over. It’s just one wicket, nothing extraordinary, but special nonetheless.”
As expected, Rishabh Pant brought flair to the crease post-tea, playing a series of aggressive shots. Unfortunately, his innings ended prematurely at 37 after he was struck on the foot while attempting a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes, forcing him to retire hurt.
Sai Sudharsan, meanwhile, impressed with a composed maiden Test half-century that pushed India past the 200-run mark. He showed good awareness against England’s short-pitched approach but ultimately lost patience on 61, miscuing a shot off Stokes that Brydon Carse comfortably caught at long leg.
Speaking about Pant’s condition, Sudharsan said, “He was clearly in a lot of pain. He’s gone for scans, and we’ll likely know more tomorrow. He was playing brilliantly — it could impact us significantly if he’s ruled out.”
Pant’s Injury Slows India’s Momentum England were unable to break through again before stumps, leaving the contest delicately poised heading into day two.
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