Author: Akshay Published Date: 28 July 2025
From 0/2 to Unbreakable: India’s Day 5 Masterclass
Facing a 311-run deficit, a collapsed top order (0/2 in 1st over), and England’s relentless attack, India pulled off one of their greatest Test escapes at Old Trafford. By stumps on Day 5, the visitors had batted 143 overs, with four centurions—Shubman Gill (103), KL Rahul (90), Ravindra Jadeja (112), and Washington Sundar (101)—to secure a historic draw.
This wasn’t just about saving a Test—it was a statement of resilience, proving India can fight back from the brink.
The Heroes of India’s Fightback
1️⃣ Shubman Gill: Captain’s Knock (103)
- 4th century of the series – First Asian to score 700+ runs in an England series.
- Became only the 3rd captain ever with four tons in a single series.
- Key partnership with Rahul (188 runs) that steadied the ship.
2️⃣ KL Rahul: The Anchor (90)
- Missed a century by 10 runs, but his gritty 90 set the foundation.
- Played 210 balls, soaking up pressure against England’s seamers.
3️⃣ Ravindra Jadeja: The Warrior (112*)
- Unbeaten century under extreme pressure.
- Dropped early by Root – a costly miss for England.
- Refused Stokes’ handshake offer – signaling India’s defiance.
4️⃣ Washington Sundar: Debut Hero (101*)
- Maiden Test century in just his second match.
- Calm under fire, supporting Jadeja in a 200+ run stand.
England’s Frustration & Missed Chances
🏴 Ben Stokes (Player of the Match) – 141 runs & 5 wickets, but fatigued on Day 5.
❌ Dropped catches (Root’s spill of Jadeja proved costly).
😤 Handshake drama – India declined Stokes’ early offer, choosing to bat on.
⏳ 143 overs bowled, 0 wickets taken – England’s attack ran out of steam.
Why This Draw Feels Like a Win for India
✅ Mental strength – Recovered from 0/2 and a huge deficit.
✅ Series still alive (2-1) – Momentum shifts to India ahead of The Oval decider.
✅ Young stars deliver – Gill, Sundar, and Rahul prove India’s next-gen talent.
What’s Next? The Oval Awaits
🔹 5th Test at The Oval – Can India level the series?
🔹 England’s injury concerns – Stokes, Archer struggling.
🔹 India’s confidence boost – Jadeja & Sundar’s form is a major plus.
A Test for the Ages
This wasn’t just a draw—it was a showcase of Test cricket’s spirit. India, written off after Day 3, fought back with grit, patience, and sheer willpower.
Can they carry this momentum to The Oval?
Or will England strike back?
Drop your predictions below! ⬇️