Manchester, July 27, 2025 — On a pitch that could barely offer movement for bowlers at the start of Day Five, India’s lower order rose to the occasion in spectacular fashion to secure a dramatic draw on the final day at Old Trafford.
Jadeja and Sundar's Epic Rescue
Early in the day, England looked poised to break the match open after dismissing India’s middle order. But a rock-solid partnership between Ravindra Jadeja (107*, not out) and Washington Sundar (100*, not out) put England’s pressure back on.
Their unbroken partnership of over 200 runs guided India to 425/4, chasing a competitive total and denying England victory under fading light.
Ben Stokes: All-Round Hero Amid Personal Struggle
England captain Ben Stokes delivered a stellar all-round performance, with a gritty 141 runs and six wickets during the match, even as he battled visible physical discomfort. His efforts nearly paid off—only for the resilient Indian duo to deny him the winner’s prize.
The Series Tied, Momentum Still with India
The draw keeps the five-Test series level, and India heads to The Oval decider with rising confidence after Jadeja and Sundar’s display of mental fortitude. England’s slip fielding tactics and final day aggression were commendable, but ultimately could not unhinge the partnership.
Match Highlights and Key Insights
Day’s highest run chase: Jadeja and Sundar’s 200+ stand steered India from 365/4 to a draw.
England’s tactical shift: Aggressive slip fielding and pressure bowling led by Stokes created early damage.
Final day pitch trend: Old Trafford’s Day Five surface offered minimal assistance, shifting advantage to batters.
Series setup: With one Test left, both teams now have everything to play for in the final showdown.
What It Means Going Forward
India showed that backing experienced all-rounders with lower-order resilience pays off.
England must rethink late-game strategies if they want to force a win in the Oval decider.
Old Trafford’s turn-around likely cements England’s need for flexible planning under pressure.
Final Thoughts
It’s been five days of tight cricket and unrelenting tension.
But in the end, Jadeja and Sundar stood firm—transforming possible defeat into a high-stakes draw and ensuring that momentum transfer happens with purpose, not panic.
Now, all eyes are on The Oval—where the final Test will determine not just a series winner, but the character of modern Test cricket.
Explore Laser247 for cricket updates and get id for play : https://laser247.shop/