Captain Gill And KL Rahul Stand Tall As India Fight Back At Old Trafford!

Old Trafford, Manchester:
In a dramatic turnaround on Day 4 of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul rescued India from a disastrous start to finish the day unbeaten at 174 for 2. Trailing England by 137 runs, the pair put together a crucial 174‑run stand to keep India firmly in the contest. 

Stokes Inspires England to 669:

England’s imposing first-innings total of 669 their fifth‑highest in Test cricket was anchored by a majestic 141 from captain Ben Stokes, his first Test century in two years. His all-round performance, earlier highlighted by a five-wicket haul, pushed him into elite company as only the fourth player to combine over 7,000 Test runs with 200 wickets. Stokes did not bowl in India’s second innings, likely managing a cramp sustained during the match. England lead the match by 311 runs heading into the second innings. 

Woakes Rocks India with Two Wickets in the First Over

India’s second innings began in stunning fashion with Chris Woakes claiming two wickets in the first over, dismissing both Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan for ducks before a single run was on the board. India were immediately placed on the back foot at 0/2, deep in their chase and under immense pressure. 

Gill and Rahul Masterfully Rebuild from the Ashes

From India’s bleakest moment, Shubman Gill (78) and KL Rahul (87)marched back into the contest with a masterclass in application and resilience. They put together a 174-run unbeaten partnership, showcasing impeccable technique and patience across 63 overs of relentless pressure. Their stand started from 0 for 2 and carried India to 174/2 at stumps, narrowing England’s lead to 137 runs.  

Gill remained unbeaten on 78, while Rahul finished unbeaten on 87. Their calm, composed display underlined India’s ability to withstand England’s early surge.

🚨 INDIA FLIGHTING HARD AT MANCHESTER 🚨

– 0/2 after 1st over.
– KL Rahul: 87*(210).
– Shubman Gill: 78*(167).

Both have added 174* runs so far, A partnership to remember for India in SENA Test History. 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/2uAuzjwr19

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 26, 2025

Also Read: Gill, Rahul Stand Tall Amid England Onslaught on Day 4 at Old Trafford!

Match Situation Heading into Day 5

1. England 1st Innings: 669 all out

2. India 2nd Innings at Stumps Day 4: 174/2 (63 overs) 

   1. Gill 78*, Rahul 87*

   2. India trail by 137 runs

England leads the series 2–1, and a win in this Test will seal the series. India must bat sensibly through at least two full sessions tomorrow to rescue a draw. With Manchester rain forecast for Day 5, the final session promises drama if India’s middle order can continue this resolve, they might yet salvage the match. Otherwise, England stands poised to seal victory.