Cricket fans worldwide were treated to a thrill ride in the 4th Test of the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy between India and England. The fixture, hosted at a packed venue, showcased the sheer resilience, grit, and spirit of both teams. From monumental first-innings batting to India's unexpected second-innings fightback, this match is sure to be remembered for years to come.
The Build-Up to the Fourth Test
This five-match series witnessed England carving out a 2-1 lead before entering the 4th Test. A victory or a draw for England at this stage would mean they remained in the driver's seat heading into the final Test at The Oval. On the other hand, India needed a strong comeback to remain alive in the series and sustain momentum in the race for crucial World Test Championship (WTC) points.
Dramatic First Innings
England's Massive Total
- Ben Stokes and Joe Root led the charge with the bat, contributing marquee centuries (Stokes scoring 141 and Root 150).
- The English top order displayed remarkable resilience and flair, culminating in a colossal first-innings score of 669.
- England declared once they felt the total was unassailable, giving their bowlers ample time and runs to work with.
Key Performance: Ben Stokes showcased his all-round ability by scoring a blistering century and later picking up five wickets for just 72 runs.
India's Struggle
- India, confronted by a tidal wave of runs, sought stability but struggled to find their rhythm.
- Although there were knocks of substance (Sai Sudharsan with 61, Yashasvi Jaiswal with 58, and Rishabh Pant with 54), India only managed 358 in the first innings, trailing by 311 runs.
- Ben Stokes' five-wicket haul further tightened England's grip on the match.
The Twist: India's Second Innings Revival
Rocky Start
- India's second attempt at the crease began on a disastrous note, losing both openers for ducks.
- At 1 for 2, the situation looked dire, and it appeared as though an innings defeat might be in the offing.
The Fightback: Gill, Rahul, Jadeja, and Sundar
- Shubman Gill's Century (103)
- Gill timed his shots to perfection, bringing stability and momentum to India's innings.
- His temperament and technique in challenging conditions were invaluable.
- K.L. Rahul's Key Contribution (90)
- Rahul lent steadiness at the crease, pairing effectively with Gill to ensure that India began to repair the early damage and stave off the threat of an innings defeat.
- Ravindra Jadeja's Unbeaten 107*
- Jadeja's presence at the crease proved the turning point; his attacking yet composed approach frustrated England's bowlers.
- Demonstrated genuine class under pressure, especially considering India's delicate situation.
- Washington Sundar's Century (101*)
- Sundar's patient approach complemented Jadeja flawlessly, the pair knitting together an enormous 203-run partnership that turned the match around.
- Showed that India's depth in batting could resist even the most relentless bowling attacks.
Late-Innings Drama and the Draw Offer
The Controversy
- As the final day's play wore on, England captain Ben Stokes, aware of the ticking clock, offered a draw.
- Ravindra Jadeja declined the proposal so that he and Sundar could chase their individual milestones (both nearing centuries).
- Ultimately, Jadeja and Sundar pushed on, reached their respective milestones, and ensured India batted out the day to finish on 425 for 4.
Outcome
- India's heroic resistance forced a deserved draw, leaving the series at 2-1 in England's favor heading into the conclusive 5th Test.
- Ben Stokes claimed the Player of the Match award for his decisive all-round performance, but India's effort remained the talking point as fans lauded the team's unwavering spirit.
Key Takeaways
- England's Batting Dominance
- Joe Root and Ben Stokes once again displayed why they are regarded among the best in world cricket. Their lofty total gave England control for most of the match.
- India's Fighting Spirit
- Trailing by 311 runs and 1 for 2 in the second innings, India's grit shone through. Shubman Gill, K.L. Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar demonstrated remarkable composure, unbowed by the pressure.
- WTC Implications
- Both teams remain strong contenders in the World Test Championship standings.
- With the series poised at 2-1, the final Test at the Oval looms large, promising another riveting contest.
- Ben Stokes: The All-Round Genius
- There's no arguing the value Stokes brings: a century, a five-wicket haul, and bold captaincy. His leadership decisions, like offering a draw, further highlight the strategic battles in modern Test cricket.
Looking Ahead to the Fifth Test
As fans gear up for the decisive encounter at The Oval, the big question is whether India's newfound momentum can topple England's lead. From a purely cricketing standpoint, it sets the stage for a classic Test finale that could either see England secure the trophy or witness a remarkable Indian comeback to level the series at 2-2.
Conclusion
The 4th Test between India and England in 2025 will undoubtedly go down as a match that embodied the true spirit of Test cricket. Solid defense, marathon partnerships, dramatic twists, and bold declarations reminded fans why the longest format still retains its prestigious place in the sport. As we look ahead to the next match at The Oval, both teams will carry lessons from this intense battle of nerves and skill"”promising another unforgettable chapter in this historic rivalry.
