Final Day Drama: India vs England Fourth Test at Old Trafford

The fourth Test match between India and England is poised for an exciting conclusion at Old Trafford, but rain may play a crucial role. With India resuming their innings at 174/2, trailing by 137 runs, the weather forecast suggests potential interruptions that could impact the match's outcome. As both teams gear up for the final day, the possibility of a draw looms large, especially with India looking to keep their series hopes alive. Will rain save India from defeat? Read on for more details.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2025, 14:40 IST

Exciting Conclusion to the Fourth Test

The fourth Test match in the five-match series between England and India has reached its climax at Old Trafford, Manchester, on Sunday, July 27. The previous day was filled with action as India took control in the latter half after England had a strong start in the morning session on Saturday, July 26.

By the end of Day 4, India had scored 174 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in 63 overs. KL Rahul and Shubman Gill were at the crease, scoring 87 and 78 runs respectively, and they formed an impressive partnership of 174 runs for the third wicket. India still trails by 137 runs, needing to overcome England's first innings total of 311 runs after they posted a massive 669.

Stumps on Day 4 in Manchester! 🏟️ A remarkable partnership between Captain Shubman Gill (78*) & KL Rahul (87*) brings #TeamIndia to 174/2 👏👏 A thrilling final day of Test cricket awaits ⏳ Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/L1EVgGu4SI #ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/1EMrsu90I3

As India began their second innings, they faced early challenges with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan both dismissed for ducks by Chris Woakes, leaving India at 0/2 in just 0.5 overs.

However, KL Rahul and Shubman Gill steadied the innings, adopting a more defensive approach to prevent further losses and frustrate the English bowlers who were eager to capitalize on the early wickets.

Weather Concerns on the Final Day

With the final day approaching, there is growing concern about potential rain affecting the match. India resumes their second innings with a 137-run deficit, while England has yet to bat in their second innings.

The UK Met Office has indicated a high likelihood of rain during the morning session, with an 80 to 90% chance of showers that could delay the start of play. Rain is expected to persist into the afternoon, with an 80% chance of precipitation, tapering to 60% by 3 PM UK time.

In the evening, the chance of rain is projected to be 50%, decreasing to 30% by 5 PM UK time, which may allow for a brief session of play if conditions improve.

Drizzle is already reported in Manchester, where the last day of the fourth Test is set to begin in about 4.5 hours. This weather could complicate batting, especially with the new ball, and may ultimately benefit India if rain disrupts play.

According to the UK Met Office, the final day of the Manchester Test is likely to be heavily influenced by rain, raising doubts about whether sufficient play can occur for either team to secure a victory.

The first two days of the fourth Test saw minor rain interruptions, but they did not significantly hinder the match's progress. The opening day concluded early due to bad light affecting the final session.

India's Chances for a Draw

As Team India resumes their second innings at 174/2, trailing by 137 runs with eight wickets remaining, the predicted weather conditions suggest that the fourth Test may end in a draw. Continuous interruptions throughout the final day could hinder England's ability to bowl India out and achieve a result.

This outcome would be a significant relief for Team India, currently behind 1-2 in the five-match series. A draw in this Test would keep their hopes alive for leveling the series in the final match and avoiding a series defeat on English soil.

The fifth and final match of the series is scheduled to take place at The Oval on July 31.