England's Frustration Grows as India Stands Firm in Second Innings

In a gripping Test match in Manchester, England's assistant coach Marcus Trescothick voiced his team's frustration after failing to capitalize on a promising start against India. Despite taking two early wickets, Indian batsmen Shubman Gill and KL Rahul formed a formidable partnership, remaining unbeaten and shifting the game's momentum. Trescothick praised their composure and strategic play, highlighting missed opportunities for England. As the match heads into Day 5, the focus will be on whether England can secure early breakthroughs and the fitness of their captain, Ben Stokes. Read on for a detailed analysis of the match's developments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2025, 03:13 IST

England's Assistant Coach Reflects on Missed Opportunities

Manchester [UK], July 27: Marcus Trescothick, the assistant coach for England, expressed the team's disappointment after they were unable to take advantage of a strong start during India's second innings. Indian batsmen Shubman Gill and KL Rahul managed to navigate through two complete sessions without losing a wicket.

During the post-match press conference on Saturday, Trescothick mentioned that the team had anticipated securing more wickets following their initial success.

“It was indeed very frustrating,” he remarked.

“We thought we would claim a few more wickets after the first over of the day. In the third innings, with the ball moving around, it felt like we would see more action,” he added.

Initially, England had India in a tough spot, taking two wickets without any runs in the first over. However, a resilient partnership between Indian captain Shubman Gill and senior opener KL Rahul, who put together an unbroken 174-run partnership, shifted the game's momentum significantly.

Trescothick praised the Indian duo for their poise and understanding of the game, particularly in neutralizing the pressure from the English bowlers.

“They batted exceptionally well. They remained positive at the start, working to soften the ball,” he noted.

“Once the ball reaches 25 to 30 overs old, it becomes more challenging, but we still believed we could have taken a couple of wickets,” he remarked.

England did have a near miss when Liam Dawson dropped a catch at backward point off Brydon Carse, but aside from that, chances were scarce as the Indian batsmen maintained their discipline.

“We had one opportunity, but there’s still work to do tomorrow,” Trescothick acknowledged.

As Day 5 approaches in Manchester, India will continue with Gill not out at 78 and Rahul at 87. The English side will be looking for early breakthroughs and some assistance from the pitch, along with the fitness of their captain Ben Stokes, which remains a concern.