India displayed remarkable resilience to secure a draw in the fourth Test against England at Emirates Old Trafford, finishing their second innings at 425/4 after being forced to follow on. The result came after England had dominated much of the match, posting a formidable first innings total of 669.
The visitors faced immediate pressure in their second innings, losing two wickets in the very first over. However, Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja produced heroic performances to steer India to safety. Sundar remained unbeaten on 101 from 206 deliveries, while Jadeja scored 107 not out from 185 balls in a partnership that spanned five sessions.
England captain Ben Stokes acknowledged India's determined effort in preserving the draw. "Yeah, I think all the hard work was done by India," Stokes said. "They both (Washi and Jadeja) played incredibly well and it got to that point where there was obviously only one result and there was absolutely no chance I was going to risk any of my big fast bowlers through injuries."
The match highlighted India's fighting spirit throughout the series, with the team showing character despite selection decisions that some viewed as defensive. The physical toll on both bowling attacks was evident, with the next Test scheduled to begin in just three days.
The drawn result means the series remains finely balanced heading into the final Test. Both teams will need to assess their bowling options ahead of the quick turnaround, with potential changes expected given the demanding schedule.
Ben Stokes was named Player of the Match for his contributions throughout the contest. The series continues with the fifth Test starting in three days, setting up a potentially decisive finale to what has been a closely fought contest between two cricketing giants.
