India’s remarkable resistance against England’s dominance at Old Trafford delivered a thrilling draw in the fourth Test of the 2025 series. After being fielded first, India posted 358 in their first innings, with notable contributions from Sai Sudharsan (61), Yashasvi Jaiswal (58), Rishabh Pant (54) and KL Rahul, while Ben Stokes starred with five wickets. England answered emphatically, declaring on 669 all out in their first innings, stacking up monstrous centuries from Joe Root (150) and Stokes himself (141), helping them compile their fifth‑highest Test total ever. Heading into the final day, India were still trailing by 311 runs and reeling at 1–2 early on Day Five.
But a masterclass in match-saving batting unfolded: KL Rahul and Shubman Gill stitched together a vital 188‑run partnership, reviving the chase and steadying the innings under immense pressure. In a display of sheer grit and defiance, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar then batted through five full sessions unbeaten, combining for an unbroken 203 to deny England victory. Jadeja reached an unbeaten 107* and Sundar notched his maiden Test century (101*), with Gill also hitting his fourth century of the series (103).
Despite England captain Stokes offering a handshake gesture with 15 overs remaining, India chose to press on—ensuring personal milestones while erasing what looked like certain defeat. The draw left the series alive at 2–1 in England’s favor, as the teams now prepare for a decisive final Test at The Oval.
Ben Stokes was named Player of the Match for his all‑round heroics, becoming the first England captain to score a Test century and take five wickets in the same match—a rare feat achieved by only four others in Test history
