The fourth Test between England and India at Old Trafford reached a dramatic conclusion, ending in a draw after a remarkable display of resilience and determination from the Indian batting lineup. After being put on the back foot, India defied expectations, led by centuries from Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, after Shubman Gill's century and a crucial 90 from KL Rahul.
England had built a commanding position, but India refused to surrender. The visitors began the final day trailing by a significant margin, but with Gill and Rahul at the crease, India harbored hopes of a fightback. Gill reached his century, his fourth of the series, setting a record for an Indian batsman in England. Rahul, after a resolute innings, fell ten runs short of his century, dismissed by Ben Stokes for 90.
The fall of Rahul's wicket brought Jadeja to the crease, who joined Sundar in the middle. With India still needing to bat out a significant portion of the day to save the Test, the two all-rounders displayed remarkable composure. They defied the English bowlers, blunting their attack and steadily accumulating runs. As the final session approached, both Jadeja and Sundar were within reach of their centuries.
In a surprising turn of events, with the clock ticking towards a draw, England captain Ben Stokes offered India a draw. However, Jadeja and Sundar, both determined to reach their individual milestones, declined the offer. This unexpected move injected further drama into the contest, with Stokes' frustration visible as play continued.
Jadeja reached his century with a six, a testament to his aggressive intent. Shortly after, Sundar completed his maiden Test century, a moment of personal triumph after a long and arduous innings. With both batsmen having achieved their goals, the two teams shook hands, and the match ended in a draw.
The draw at Old Trafford means that England still lead the five-match series 2-1 heading into the final Test at The Oval. The match will be remembered for India's fightback, the individual brilliance of Gill, Rahul, Jadeja and Sundar, and the dramatic moment when India declined England's offer of a draw.