The Old Trafford crowd was treated to pure cricketing excellence on Day 2 of the fourth Test between England and India. From Ben Stokes’ magical five-wicket haul to a ruthless opening partnership by Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, everything fell into place for the hosts.
England ended Day 2 at 225/2, trailing India’s first innings score by just 133 runs, with eight wickets in hand. India, despite starting the day with momentum, were left reeling after England’s bold and relentless fightback.
📰 Day 2 Match Highlights
At stumps on Day 2, England reached 225/2, trailing India’s first-innings 358 by just 133 runs—a major turnaround thanks to:
- 🌟 Ben Stokes claimed his first five-wicket haul since 2017, taking 5/72 and dismantled India’s lower order.
- 🧱 Zak Crawley (84) and Ben Duckett (94) built a swift 166-run opening stand in just 32 overs, taking control of the innings.
- England closed Day 2 with 8 wickets in hand, poised to seize the advantage from a competitive deficit.
🎯 Tactical Analysis
👊 Stokes' Return in Style
- First five-wicket haul in eight years, showing full recovery from previous injuries
- Tormented India’s tail, securing key dismissals to restrict the total at 358
🔄 Dawning Bazball in Action
- Duckett and Crawley played aggressively yet effectively—Over-rate scoring, minimal risk.
- Partnership anchored at a high tempo, with both batters narrowly missing centuries.
🧠 Signs of Strategic Discipline
- England exploited overcast conditions and seam-friendly early conditions to dismantle India’s lower order and take momentum into their innings
- Duckett and Crawley capitalised on erratic Indian bowling to quickly neutralise the lead
📊 Match Snapshot
| Session | India (1st Innings) | England (Response) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 358 all out | --- |
| Day 2 Morning | Stokes (5/72), Archer (3 wickets) | --- |
| Day 2 Afternoon/Evening | Crawley 84, Duckett 94 | 225/2 at stumps |
| Lead | — | England trail by 133 runs at close |
🌤️ Weather & Pitch Report – Day 3 Preview
🌦️ Old Trafford Weather Forecast (Day 3):
- Morning: Cloudy but dry
- Afternoon: 10% chance of light rain
- Temperature: 18–22°C
- Humidity: 65–75%
🏟️ Pitch Report:
- The pitch has started to flatten out with the sun baking the surface.
- Minimal seam movement; reverse swing might play a role.
- Spinners will get bounce on Day 4 and 5, but little turn now.
🧗 What’s Next for England?
- Convert this start into a 500+ score.
- Let Joe Root and Harry Brook cash in on the platform.
- Stokes might delay his batting to recover physically.
- England eye a first-innings lead of 150+ to push for a win.
📊 Match Predictions
- If Pant is unfit and England gains a 100+ lead, India might crumble on Day 4.
- However, if Kuldeep or Jadeja get early breakthroughs, the match could even out again.
- A draw looks less likely with both teams scoring at high rates.
🔍 Key Performers
- Ben Stokes (ENG): 5/72, crucial innings disruption
- Ben Duckett: Fearless opener, 94 off ~90 balls, laid strong foundation
- Zak Crawley: Fluent at the crease with controlled aggression, scored 84
👁️ What to Watch on Day 3
- Can England build a lead beyond 300?
- Will India strike early with their new-ball attack?
- How will middle-order dynamics play out under pressure?
❓ FAQs (SEO Queries)
Q1: How many wickets did Stokes take on Day 2?
A: Ben Stokes claimed a 5-wicket haul (5/72), his first since 2017.Q2: What was the opening partnership between Duckett & Crawley?
A: They shared a whopping 166-run stand in just 32 overs .Q3: What was England’s position at stumps Day 2?
A: England were 225/2, trailing India’s first innings by 133 runs .Q4: Is India still in control?
A: Slightly, as they hold a lead, but England’s position is strong heading into Day 3.Q5: Is Rishabh Pant fit to bat again in the 4th Test?
A: Pant suffered a foot injury and is currently under observation. Team doctors haven't ruled him out, but his participation on Day 3 is uncertain.
Q6: How many wickets did Ben Stokes take on Day 2?
A: Stokes took 5 wickets for 47 runs, turning the match in England's favor.
Q7: What’s the weather forecast for Day 3?
A: Mostly dry with light cloud cover. Minimal chance of rain interruptions.
Q8: How is the pitch behaving on Day 2?
A: The pitch has flattened considerably, offering little assistance to bowlers. Reverse swing and bounce will be key going forward.
Q9: Can India still win this match?
A: Yes, but it will require quick wickets and a strong second innings
🧠 Final Thoughts
✅ England Back With Authority
Ben Stokes demonstrated his class with the ball, while Duckett and Crawley showcased Bazball’s aggressive shot-making. England shifted momentum, seized control, and closed Day 2 in a commanding position despite trailing.
⚠️ India’s Challenge Ahead
India need early wickets on Day 3 and better support from seamers to slow England’s progress. Pant's fitness may also factor into their middle-order plans.
🔮 Momentum Heading Into Day 3
With their openers and captain performing, England carry momentum. If they extend the innings well tomorrow, they could take a lead and place India on the back foot.