There were two tales of inspiration unfolding at the Old Trafford as the 4th Test between India and England entered the 2nd Day.
Rishabh Pant walked out to bat with a broken foot at the fall of Shardul’s wicket. The whole stadium rose in applause for Rishabh’s brave, undaunted spirit and standing up for his country. Truly inspirational.
Ben Stokes bowled tirelessly with lots of intent and purpose and deservedly got his first 5- wicket haul in 8 years. His ability to lift his team when the going is tough is remarkable and just keeps inspiring the boys under him to give their best. No wonder Ben Stokes has reached legendary status in cricket.
Resuming at 264/4, the Indian first innings folded at 358 runs with decent cameos from Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar and a historic 50 from Rishabh Pant. The ball just kept on swinging and seaming for the English bowlers at all times. Batting was challenging and at the break India was feeling not all that bad with the score on the board.
England came out to bat with purpose and a dose of Bazball. The Indian bowlers found no swing or seam as both Duckett and Crawley played beautifully to take early advantage. The stroke play from both the English openers was exquisite with some breathtaking drives and flicks. Crawley in particular was brilliant with his drives through extra cover, while Duckett belted the ball with his powerful pulls and flicks.
In the end England were sitting pretty at 225/2 with Joe Root and Ollie Pope at the crease. The English had knocked off the majority of India’s 358 in no time.
Day 3 is going to be the moving day. India needs to bowl well as England will look to dominate.
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