Manoj Tiwary Analyzes England's Strategy Against India in Fourth Test

In a recent analysis, former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary shared his thoughts on England's strategy to build a significant lead over India in the fourth Test at Old Trafford. He expressed doubts about India's chances of winning but noted that a draw is still possible. As England ended the day at 544/7, Tiwary highlighted the challenges India faces in making a comeback. The article delves into the performances of key players and the overall dynamics of the match, providing a comprehensive overview of the ongoing Test series.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 26, 2025, 02:00 IST

Tiwary Discusses England's Dominance in Fourth Test

In Kolkata, former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary shared insights on the England team's approach to establishing a substantial lead of 250-300 runs over India during the fourth Test at Old Trafford. This strategy aims to place significant pressure on the Indian side.

Tiwary expressed skepticism about India's chances of winning the match, although he noted that a draw remains a feasible outcome. As the day concluded, England stood at 544/7, holding a 186-run advantage.

During his conversation, Tiwary remarked, “The England batsmen are likely aiming for a lead of 250-300 runs to secure a victory against India. Given the current circumstances, it’s tough for India to stage a comeback... However, a draw is still a possibility.”

England commenced the day at 225/2, with Ollie Pope (20*) and Joe Root (11*) not out. The pair formed a century partnership, building on the solid performances of openers Ben Duckett (94 off 100 balls, including 13 fours) and Zak Crawley (84 off 113 balls, with 13 fours and a six). They propelled England to 332/2 by the end of the first session, both achieving half-centuries.

In the second session, Washington Sundar (2/57) dismissed Ollie Pope (71 off 128 balls, seven fours) and Harry Brook (3), but captain Ben Stokes and Joe Root countered India's efforts. Root reached his 38th Test century, surpassing Ricky Ponting to become the second-highest run-scorer in Test history.

By the end of the second session, England was at 433/4, with Stokes and Root still at the crease. Both Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj faced fitness challenges during this period, with Bumrah managing only one over with the new ball.

Stokes completed his fifty in the final session but later left the field due to discomfort in his left leg. Root was eventually dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja for a commendable 150 off 248 balls, which included 14 fours. Bumrah and Siraj quickly took out Jamie Smith (9) and Chris Woakes (4), reducing England to 528/7. However, Stokes (77*) returned to bat alongside Liam Dawson (21*), stabilizing the innings.

Earlier, after winning the toss, England chose to bowl first, allowing India to score 358 runs. Key contributions came from Sai Sudharsan (61 off 151 balls, with seven fours), Yashasvi Jaiswal (58 off 107 balls, with 10 fours and a six), and Rishabh Pant (54 off 75 balls, with three fours and two sixes). Stokes (5/72) delivered crucial blows to India, preventing them from forming significant partnerships.