IND vs ENG 2025: India Register Unwanted Record in Manchester Test, First Time in 42 Years
India reduced to 0/2 after Woakes' double strike, but Rahul and Gill’s unbeaten 174-run stand sparks strong Day 4 fightback
India’s second innings in the fourth Test at Old Trafford began in chaos but ended Day 4 with a strong recovery, thanks to a determined 174-run stand between KL Rahul and Shubman Gill.
After conceding a massive 311-run first-innings lead, India were rocked early as Chris Woakes struck twice in the very first over, reducing the visitors to 0 for 2.
Woakes’ Double Strike Creates History
Yashasvi Jaiswal was the first to go, edging to the slips. The very next ball saw Sai Sudharsan caught by Harry Brook, giving Woakes a double-wicket maiden and England a dream start.
It was a moment of historical significance too. This was the first time in 42 years that India lost their first two wickets for ducks at the start of a Test innings. The last time it happened was in 1983, when Anshuman Gaekwad and Dilip Vengsarkar were dismissed for zero.
Back then, Sunil Gavaskar had to come in early and famously faced a sledge from Viv Richards, who said, “No matter where you bat, the score is still 0.”
Rahul and Gill Lead the Recovery
From that dreadful start, India’s fightback was led by KL Rahul and Shubman Gill. The pair batted through two full sessions without losing a wicket, facing over 370 deliveries with calm and control.
They took India to 174 for 2 at Stumps, cutting England’s lead down to 137 runs and keeping hopes of a draw alive.
The day, which began with disaster, ended with a strong statement of resilience from India’s middle order. With one day left and the pitch starting to show signs of wear, the final day could still have surprises in store.
