Old Trafford, Manchester:
On a pitch that looks hard and full of runs, and under overcast skies, India were put in to bat by England after losing the toss in the fourth Test at Old Trafford. While the decision by Ben Stokes may raise a few eyebrows given the historical records at this venue, for India, the task is now clear: survive, settle, and score smartly in the opening session.
Here’s how India can seize the initiative right from the first ball.
Openers Must Build a Wall Early
With KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal at the top, India’s first task is survival especially against the swinging ball in the first hour. The Dukes ball under Manchester’s morning cloud cover can be tricky, but the pitch underneath looks good for batting once the shine wears off.
Game Plan:
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Play close to the body
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Leave wisely outside off-stump
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Respect the new ball and avoid expansive shots
A patient start will go a long way in tiring out the England quicks and setting the tone for the session.
KL RAHUL COMPLETED 1000 RUNS IN ENGLAND IN TESTS 🇮🇳
– The Backbone of Test batting. pic.twitter.com/MFDl5gujIO
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 23, 2025
Rotate Strike, Don’t Get Stuck
Once the openers are set, strike rotation becomes crucial. Constant movement on the scoreboard unsettles fielding sides and forces bowlers to alter their lines.
Even against top-quality seamers like Chris Woakes and Jofra Archer, India’s batters must avoid dot-ball pressure.
Key Tactic:
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Quick singles into gaps
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Use soft hands to guide balls into space
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Ensure the strike keeps changing to disrupt rhythm
Also Read: Ashwin Hails Kamboj: ‘Bowlers With 40 Tests Can’t Do That’!
Adjust to Conditions, But Stay Positive
While the overhead conditions may hint at movement, early signs show the surface at Old Trafford is true and consistent. After 10–12 overs, the batters should look to slowly shift gears without taking unnecessary risks.
Approach:
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Be flexible in mindset
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Attack loose balls
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Leave well, but punish anything over-pitched or short
Confidence is key, but patience must remain the foundation.
Build Partnerships
India includes Sai Sudharsan back at No. 3, The first session becomes even more critical in giving him a calm entry point.
Tactical Move:
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One of the openers must aim to bat deep into the session
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Take responsibility to guide the newcomer through initial overs
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Build a steady partnership to reduce pressure on the debutant
Strong partnerships are the heartbeat of a good first session.
Expect Bowling Rotation, Stay Alert
England’s pace-heavy attack will be quick to rotate and test batters with different angles and speeds. India must remain watchful when new bowlers are introduced and adjust to subtle changes in pace or bounce.
Important Detail:
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Don’t relax when a second or third bowler comes on
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Reassess the field and bowler’s release
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Look for opportunities to score, but stay grounded in defense
This is a session of survival and slow dominance not a T20 powerplay.
India’s success in the opening session depends not on aggression, but intelligence. By respecting the early movement, rotating strike, and building partnerships, the visitors can blunt England’s attack and lay the platform for a strong first-innings total.
