Former England Captain Critiques Shubman Gill’s Leadership After Rishabh Pant’s Runs Given Back to England
England showcased their strength on Day 2 of the fourth Test against India at Old Trafford, Manchester, finishing the day at 225/2. A solid opening partnership of 166 runs between Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley set the stage for England, who are now just 133 runs shy of India’s first innings total of 358. Despite Rishabh Pant’s earlier contribution of a half-century, England’s batting dominance was evident as they continued to build their innings.
## Dominant Opening Partnership
The day began with England resuming their innings at 77 without loss. Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley quickly established their rhythm, with Duckett reaching his fifty by hitting a boundary off Shardul Thakur, pushing England past the 100-run mark. Crawley soon followed suit, bringing up his own half-century with a well-timed shot off Thakur in the 21st over. The duo’s partnership was crucial, as they kept the scoreboard ticking, and England crossed the 150-run milestone in the 29th over, thanks to another boundary from Duckett, this time off Mohammed Siraj.
Former England captain Nasser Hussain criticized India’s bowling performance, suggesting that the bowlers failed to adapt to changing conditions. He expressed concerns over the captaincy decisions, particularly the choice to give debutant Anshul Kamboj the new ball ahead of established bowler Siraj. Hussain noted that the Indian bowlers were too often targeting the pads, which allowed the English batsmen to settle in comfortably.
## Breakthroughs for India
India finally made a breakthrough in the 32nd over when Ravindra Jadeja dismissed Crawley for 84 runs off 113 balls, ending the impressive opening stand at 166. The second wicket fell at 197, with Kamboj claiming his first Test wicket by removing Duckett for 94 runs from 100 deliveries. This marked a significant moment for Kamboj, who had only recently joined the squad. England’s innings continued to progress, reaching the 200-run mark in the 39th over, with Ollie Pope contributing to the score with a boundary off Kamboj.
Despite the breakthroughs, India’s bowlers struggled to maintain consistent pressure. Jadeja ended the day with figures of 1/37 from 8 overs, while Kamboj finished with 1/48 from 10 overs. The Indian team will need to regroup and strategize effectively to contain England’s batting lineup as they head into the next day of play.
## Stumps and Future Prospects
As the day concluded, Ollie Pope and Joe Root were at the crease, having added an unbeaten 28-run partnership. England’s position looks strong as they head into Day 3, with their batting lineup appearing confident and in control. India will need to reassess their bowling tactics and make necessary adjustments to prevent England from surpassing their first innings total.
With the match poised for an exciting continuation, both teams will be keen to capitalize on their respective strengths. England’s batting depth and India’s bowling prowess will be put to the test as they vie for dominance in this crucial Test match.
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