• Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar's centuries secured a draw for India in Manchester.

  • Jadeja and Sundar put up an unbeaten 203-run partnership for the fifth wicket.

ENG vs IND: Fans go gaga as Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar’s tons secure a draw for India in Manchester
Fans go gaga as Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar's tons secure a draw for India on Day 5 of the fourth Test (Image source: X)

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The England vs India 4th Test at Manchester produced an exhilarating contest that kept fans at the edge of their seats until the very end. After England piled up a formidable 669 in their first innings, the spotlight shifted to India’s batting resilience on Day 5. The match’s finale was marked by masterful centuries from Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar that denied England a victory and ensured a hard-fought draw. It was a classic display of grit and determination by the Indian batters, frustrating the English bowlers and sending the crowd into a frenzy.

Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar’s twin centuries frustrate England

While Gill’s captaincy and ton stole the headlines, it was the remarkable efforts of Jadeja and Sundar that truly defied expectations. Coming into England’s daunting score of 669, the Indian batters were under immense pressure to bat out as much time as possible.

Jadeja’s second innings century stood out as a masterpiece, crafted off 185 balls with 13 boundaries and a six, accumulating 107 runs and ensuring India remained firmly in command. His calm demeanour at the crease and steady stroke play subdued the English attack, particularly England’s pace duo led by Chris Woakes and Jofra Archer. Equally impressive was Sundar, who scored a gritty 101 runs off 206 deliveries, blending patience and precision with nine fours and a six to frustrate the bowlers.

On Day 5, Jadeja and Sundar stitched a phenomenal partnership, weaving through overs with clinical finesse. They shared an unbroken stand, battling the new ball, short-pitched deliveries, and relentless England fielding. Their partnership embodied resilience, shifting momentum away from England and making a win seem impossible for the hosts.

Also READ: ENG vs IND: Fans erupt in admiration as Shubman Gill scores a record ton for India on Day 5 of Manchester Test

Shubman Gill and Co.’s batting masterclass seals a hard-fought draw for India

India’s second innings journey was a narrative of persistence and collective fightback. After losing early wickets including Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan for naught, Gill rose to the occasion, anchoring the innings with a polished 103. His innings, filled with 12 fours, ensured stability and kept India afloat.

Despite England’s fierce bowling spells led by Ben Stokes and Archer, the Indian middle-order refused to crumble. KL Rahul’s valiant 90 runs also added to the resistance, but it was the lower middle-order’s heroics on Day 5 that saved the day for India. Jadeja’s 107* and Sundar’s 101* were instrumental in occupying the crease through a mammoth 143 overs for India’s second innings, finishing at 425/4.

England’s bowlers exhausted themselves trying to break the partnership, but Jadeja and Sundar denied any breakthrough. The match ended in an enthralling draw, with India showcasing exceptional temperament and skill under pressure.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also WATCH: Shubman Gill struck by Ben Stokes’ brutal delivery on Day 5 of Manchester Test

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About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.