India hopes for a draw on the fifth day of the Manchester Test. The unbroken Rahul-Gill partnership, Pant's return, and the possibility of rain might offer support to the team. However, the first 20 overs with the new ball will be decisive for India.
IND vs ENG: The fifth and final day of the fourth Test being played between India and England has now become the biggest test. At Old Trafford, Team India stands at 174/2 and is still 137 runs behind. KL Rahul (87) and Shubman Gill (78)** are holding their ground at the crease. The question is—can India save this Test?
Rahul-Gill Ignite Hope
At the start of the fourth day, when India lost two wickets for zero, no one thought that the team would play 62 overs without losing a wicket by the end of the day. The patient batting of Rahul and Gill not only pulled the team out of crisis but also instilled hope for a draw in the dressing room and among the fans.
The First 20 Overs with the New Ball Will Be Decisive
According to NDTV Consulting Editor Boria Majumdar, "India can manage the first 17-20 overs with the old ball, but the real challenge will come when England takes the new ball. Bounce and uneven bounce on the pitch can create difficulties for the batsmen. Those 20 overs will be a game-changer." Therefore, Rahul and Gill not only have to save their wickets but also work on strike rotation and time-spending strategies.
Rishabh Pant's Presence Will Increase Strength
The relieving news for India is that injured Rishabh Pant will be available to bat on the fifth day. His aggressive style and ability to score runs quickly can put pressure on the English bowlers.
Rain Could Become an 'Unseen Partner'
According to weather reports, there is a possibility of rain in Manchester on the fifth day. If even one session is washed out, it will be a big advantage for India. After spending time with the old ball, a rain interruption will increase the pressure on England.
England's Secret Weapon: Ben Stokes
England captain Ben Stokes, who has not bowled so far, can come out with full force on the fifth day. Boria Majumdar believes— "Stokes saved himself on the fourth day. On the fifth day, he will bowl aggressively with the new ball. His spell can be a big challenge for India."
Pitch Report: Both Challenge and Opportunity for Batsmen
- Uneven Bounce: Can be dangerous with the new ball.
- Ease on the Old Ball: As the ball gets older, batting will become a little simpler.
- India will have to stay at the crease patiently for a long time.
Victory Difficult, But Draw Possible
The math is clear:
- India needs to score more than 400 runs to win the match, which is almost impossible in this situation.
- But if Rahul, Gill, and Pant form long partnerships, the lower order stays put, and the rain cooperates, India can save this Test.
What Should Team India's Strategy Be?
- Getting through the first session is the most important.
- Play defensively to save wickets until the new ball arrives.
- Adopt a defensive approach when needed.
- Pant and the lower order need partnerships for time, not runs.
- Value every single-double to tire out England.
