India Fights Hard but Loses Pant to Injury, Leaving 4th Test Finely Poised

India vs England: 4th Test, Day 1 Report

India navigated a challenging opening day under overcast Manchester skies to reach a respectable 264 for 4 at stumps, but a serious-looking foot injury to Rishabh Pant left the fourth Test evenly balanced. The day was characterized by a slow, attritional style of cricket, with neither side managing to seize complete control.

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Sudharsan Shines, Pant Stumbles

After being put in to bat, India's effort was anchored by B Sai Sudharsan, who crafted a patient and crucial maiden Test half-century. His dogged 61 provided stability through the middle sessions after a solid foundation was laid by the openers. Yashasvi Jaiswal (58) and KL Rahul (46) put on a 94-run stand, batting through the morning to blunt England's initial attack.

However, the momentum shifted late in the day. The most significant setback came when Rishabh Pant, who was batting on 37, was forced to retire hurt. He appeared to injure his foot while attempting a reverse sweep and had to be taken off the field on a cart, casting doubt on his further participation in the match.

England's captain, Ben Stokes, made key breakthroughs, dismissing Shubman Gill for a brief 12 and later removing the well-set Sudharsan. Returning spinner Liam Dawson also made an impact, claiming the wicket of Jaiswal. Despite these successes, England's bowlers couldn't fully capitalize on the decision to bowl first, as India's batters showed discipline for long periods. The day ended with Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur at the crease, leaving the match finely poised heading into day two.