How Did Root's 150 and Stokes' Resilience Propel England to a 186-Run Lead Over India?
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Synopsis
England showcased a remarkable performance in the fourth Test against India, with Joe Root's brilliant 150 and Ben Stokes' determined 77 leading to a significant 186-run advantage. This match promises high-stakes drama as both teams battle for supremacy. Can England secure a decisive victory, or will India mount a comeback? Stay tuned for every thrilling moment!
Key Takeaways
- Joe Root scored 150 runs and became the second-highest Test run-scorer.
- Ben Stokes contributed an unbeaten 77 after returning from injury.
- England leads by 186 runs against India.
- Root and Stokes' partnership was crucial for England's score.
- Indian bowlers struggled, allowing easy runs and facing a daunting challenge.
Manchester, July 25 (NationPress) Joe Root delivered an outstanding performance by scoring 150 runs, making him the second-highest run-scorer in Test cricket history. Meanwhile, captain Ben Stokes, after briefly leaving the field due to a cramp, returned to remain not out on 77. Their contributions were pivotal in helping England establish a commanding 186-run lead over India on the third day of the fourth Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Test at Old Trafford on Friday.
Starting their innings at 225-2, England amassed an impressive 319 runs for the loss of just five wickets. The highlight of the day's play was Root, who combined surgical precision with artistic grace to surpass cricket legends like Jacques Kallis, Rahul Dravid, and Ricky Ponting, securing his position as the second all-time leading run-scorer with his 38th Test century.
Root's partnership with Ollie Pope, who scored 71, yielded a significant 144-run partnership. With Stokes and Liam Dawson (who was not out on 21) at the crease, England is optimistic about further extending their lead and putting pressure on an Indian bowling unit that struggled with their lengths and strategies, allowing easy runs and facing a daunting task to recover in the match.
The final session commenced with Jasprit Bumrah taking over bowling duties but appeared to be off his game. Root maintained his rhythm, driving Shardul Thakur past mid-on for a boundary, while Stokes elegantly struck a half-volley from Bumrah through cover for another four.
After reaching his 36th half-century, Stokes executed a reverse sweep off Ravindra Jadeja for four and followed it up with a boundary against Washington Sundar. However, after feeling discomfort in his left calf during the 115th over, Stokes retired hurt at the end of the 116th over with a score of 66 from 116 balls, as confirmed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) due to cramp issues.
Root's stellar innings concluded at exactly 250 runs when he was stumped by a superb delivery from Jadeja that spun past his outside edge.
Bumrah made his mark again, claiming a wicket with his first ball, which took the edge of a probing Jamie Smith, caught smartly by Jurel for his 50th Test wicket in England. Siraj also joined the wicket-takers by getting Chris Woakes out, sending the ball crashing into the stumps.
Stokes returned to the pitch, ensuring that no further wickets fell alongside Dawson, marking a dominant day of Test cricket for England.
Brief Scores: India 358 in 114.1 overs (B Sai Sudharsan 61; Ben Stokes 5-72) trail England 544/7 in 135 overs (Joe Root 150, Ben Duckett 94; Washington Sundar 2-57, Ravindra Jadeja 2-117) by 186 runs
Point of View
I observe that England's performance in this Test match has been nothing short of remarkable. Joe Root's achievement in reaching an impressive 150 runs not only highlights his skill but also cements his status among cricketing greats. Meanwhile, Ben Stokes' resilience adds depth to England's batting lineup. The dynamics of this match are intriguing, as India faces a substantial challenge to turn the tide.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Joe Root's score in the fourth Test?
Joe Root scored an impressive 150 runs in the fourth Test against India.
How did Ben Stokes perform in the match?
Ben Stokes remained unbeaten on 77 runs, contributing significantly to England's lead.
What is the current lead of England over India?
England currently leads by 186 runs over India in the fourth Test.
Who took the most wickets for England?
Ben Stokes took 5 wickets for 72 runs, leading the bowling attack.
What was the total score of India?
India scored 358 runs in their first innings.
