The fourth Test between England and India at Emirates Old Trafford is poised intriguingly after the second day's play, with England recovering strongly after India posted a first-innings total of 358, aided by Rishabh Pant's courageous batting display with a fractured toe. At the close of play on Day 2, England reached 225/2, trailing by 133 runs.

India's innings saw a heroic effort from Rishabh Pant, who walked out to bat despite a broken foot. However, Ben Stokes's impressive bowling performance, claiming his first five-wicket haul in eight years, helped England restrict India's total.

England's response was emphatic, with openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett establishing a commanding 166-run partnership. The duo capitalized on the favorable batting conditions, scoring at a rapid pace of 4.89 runs per over. Duckett was particularly aggressive, reaching 94 off 100 balls before being dismissed. Crawley also played his part, scoring 38 runs.

The Indian seamers struggled to extract the same assistance from the pitch as their English counterparts and were also criticized for their inconsistent lines and lengths with the new ball. This allowed the English openers to dominate the innings.

However, India managed to claw back into the game late in the day, picking up two crucial wickets before the close of play. Anshul Kamboj dismissed Ben Duckett, while another bowler removed Zak Crawley. Joe Root and Ollie Pope are at the crease and will resume play on Day 3.

Earlier in the day, England's bowlers, particularly Stokes, made good use of the second new ball, finding movement and unsettling the Indian batsmen. Jofra Archer also contributed with a wicket.

The match is finely balanced, with England in a potentially strong position but India still capable of fighting back. The performance of Root and Pope on Day 3 will be crucial in determining the course of the Test. The Indian bowlers will need to regroup and find a way to exploit any assistance the pitch offers to restrict England's lead.

Overall, Day 2 was filled with action, showcasing Pant's bravery, Stokes's bowling prowess, and the dominance of England's opening pair, followed by a late fightback from India.