India vs England 4th Test Day 2: Pant’s Heroics, Stokes’ Fifer & England’s Chase
After a herculean effort on Day 1, India posted 358 in their first innings, led by a fighting half-century from vice-captain Rishabh Pant despite his injured foot. England responded strongly, with skipper Ben Stokes taking a crucial five-wicket haul, and openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett trading blows, leaving England at 225/2 at stumps, trailing by 133 runs.
India’s Resilient First Innings
Despite losing three quick wickets early, India’s lower order, led by Pant’s 54 and useful contributions from Shardul Thakur (41) and Ravindra Jadeja (20), helped surpass 350. India were finally all out in 114.1 overs.
Pant’s Heroics & Injury Update
Pant, who injured his foot attempting that reverse-sweep, walked in with obvious discomfort. Yet he managed to score 54 off 75 balls, including a six off Jofra Archer, bringing up his 19th Test fifty before being bowled. He bravely batted with restricted mobility and skipped wicket-keeping duties.
Stokes’ Five-Wicket Success
England’s captain turned match-turner with his first five-wicket haul since 2017, finishing with figures of 5/72. He removed key Indian batsmen including Washington Sundar and debutant Anshul Kamboj, shifting momentum in England’s favor.
England’s Aggressive Chase
The English openers responded powerfully, reaching 225/2 by stumps. Duckett contributed 94, while Crawley added 84. Their 166-run partnership in 32 overs at over five runs per over neutralized India’s bowlers and put pressure back on the visitors.
Key Stats & Momentum Shifts
| Statistic | Detail |
|---|---|
| India First Innings | 358 all out; Pant 54, Thakur 41, Jadeja 20 |
| Pant’s Fifty | 54 off 75 despite injury |
| Stokes’ Figures | 5/72, breaking middle order resistance |
| England at Stumps | 225/2; Crawley 84, Duckett 94 |
| Lead | England trail by 133 runs |
Day 3 Outlook & Strategic Implications
- If Pant cannot keep fit, Dhruv Jurel continues behind the stumps while Pant bats.
- India will look to break the opening stand early on Day 3 to contain England’s lead.
- England aim to push past India’s total and take a lead into Test’s true phase.
- Weather remains favorable; Day 3 expected to proceed without interruption.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| India Innings | 358 all out |
| Key Batters | Pant 54 (injured), Thakur 41, Jadeja 20 |
| Top Bowler | Ben Stokes 5/72 |
| England Score | 225/2 at stumps |
| England Openers | Crawley 84, Duckett 94 |
| India Lead | Trailing by 133 |
Disclaimer: This article is based on information compiled from online sources. Please verify independently before making any decisions based on it.
Thank you for visiting Cricket In Focus! Explore more in our Test, India, and Latest Cricket Updates sections.
Discover more from Cricket In Focus
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
