Team India produced a remarkable comeback at Old Trafford on Sunday, turning what looked like certain defeat into a memorable draw against England in the fourth Test. Facing a massive deficit and intense pressure, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar batted with patience and determination, scoring unbeaten centuries that helped India survive the final day. The match ended in a draw, which felt as crucial as a win, keeping the series alive with one Test to go.
Although England still lead the five-match series by 2-1, India now has the opportunity to level it in the final Test at The Oval, beginning on July 31. The mood in the Indian camp was one of huge relief, with the players and fans celebrating the result. The Indian supporters at Old Trafford cheered with joy, thrilled not to see their team go down after such a long fight.
Reflecting that energy, the Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh was even seen breaking into a bhangra dance on the way to the dressing room, a moment that quickly went viral after being shared by Punjab Kings on social media.
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The situation had looked bleak for India after they conceded a 311-run first-innings lead. England had piled up a massive score in reply to India’s 358, putting India under immense pressure to survive the final innings. But strong performances from Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar turned the game around. Each of them played crucial roles, with Gill laying the foundation and the partnership between Jadeja and Sundar sealing the escape.
Speaking after the match to BCCI.TV, Shubman Gill shared his thoughts on what fueled the team’s belief. He said that the partnership between him and KL Rahul early in the innings was the turning point, giving the team hope that a draw was possible. He emphasised how difficult it is to maintain the same mindset and focus across 140 overs and felt that it was this mental strength that made India a “great team” rather than just a good one. For Gill, managing to fight back from such a tough position to secure a draw was incredibly satisfying.
India’s fightback in this Test will be remembered as one of the grittiest performances in recent times. As the teams now prepare for the final showdown at The Oval, India knows it still has a shot at leveling the series. With momentum on its side and belief renewed, the team will head into the decider with confidence and purpose.
