Can Duckett and Crawley Lead England to Victory?
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Synopsis
In an exciting match at Old Trafford, Duckett and Crawley put England in a strong position, scoring 77 runs without loss at tea. With India leading by 281 runs, the stage is set for a thrilling contest. Who will triumph in this riveting encounter for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy?
Key Takeaways
- Duckett and Crawley provide a solid start for England.
- Ben Stokes shines with a five-wicket haul.
- Rishabh Pant plays valiantly despite injury.
- Match remains competitive with India leading.
- Consistency in batting crucial for England's success.
Manchester, July 24 (NationPress) Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley propelled England to an impressive start, reaching 77 runs without loss in just 14 overs, while trailing India by 281 runs at the tea break on day two of the fourth Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Test at Old Trafford on Thursday.
England's captain, Ben Stokes, was instrumental earlier, claiming 5 wickets for 72 runs as India was bowled out for 358 runs in 114.1 overs. Notably, India's vice-captain, Rishabh Pant, amazed everyone by batting despite a fractured fifth metatarsal in his right foot, scoring a commendable 54 runs off 75 balls – a performance that will be remembered for years.
There were doubts about how the Indian bowlers would adapt to the bowler-friendly conditions, but Crawley and Duckett, who are currently not out with scores of 33 and 46 respectively, attacked from the outset, capitalizing on the inconsistent bowling from the tourists.
Duckett set the tone for England with four boundaries off debutant Anshul Kamboj and added three more by glancing at Jasprit Bumrah. Duckett thrived on anything pitched on his legs, while Crawley enjoyed the loose deliveries from Mohammed Siraj, hitting three fours off him. The pair consistently found the boundary, ensuring a strong position until the tea break.
Pant, who retired hurt on 37 after sustaining a painful injury on day one, contributed another 17 runs to help India surpass the 350-run mark. The second session commenced with Washington Sundar edging a delivery from Stokes for four, followed by a hook shot that resulted in his dismissal for 27 runs off 90 balls.
Stokes achieved his first five-wicket haul in eight years when he caught Kamboj's edge, dismissed by his outswinger, with Jamie Smith safely taking the catch. Pant finally found his rhythm, hitting a six off Jofra Archer and reaching his 18th Test fifty in just 69 balls before succumbing to Archer's delivery, ending up with 54 runs to a standing ovation.
Siraj and Bumrah managed to contribute a boundary each, before Bumrah's leg-side shot off Archer resulted in another catch to Smith. Following a successful review initiated by Joe Root, a nick was confirmed, concluding India's innings, with Archer finishing with figures of 3 wickets for 75 runs.
Summary of Scores: India 358 runs in 114.1 overs (B Sai Sudharsan 61, Yashasvi Jaiswal 58; Ben Stokes 5-72, Jofra Archer 3-73) lead England 77 runs without loss in 14 overs (Ben Duckett 46 not out, Zak Crawley 33 not out) by 281 runs
Point of View
I emphasize the significance of this match in shaping the narrative of the series. The resilience shown by England's opening batsmen Duckett and Crawley against a formidable Indian bowling lineup exemplifies the unpredictability and excitement of Test cricket. This match not only tests skills but also character, and we see that on full display today.
NationPress
25/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the score of England at tea?
England scored 77 runs without losing a wicket at tea on day two.
Who was India's top scorer in the innings?
Rishabh Pant top-scored for India with 54 runs.
How many wickets did Ben Stokes take?
Ben Stokes took 5 wickets for 72 runs.
Where is the match being played?
The match is being played at Old Trafford in Manchester.
What is the lead of India over England?
India leads England by 281 runs.
