Thu Jul 24 10:20:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Day 2 of the County cricket match at Old Trafford begins with India at 264-4. Concerns arise as Rishabh Pant is likely out of the series due to injury, impacting India’s batting lineup and morale. England’s bowlers, Archer and Woakes, aim to improve their performance, with Archer showing promise with his pace and movement. India is aiming to increase their score, while England hopes to capitalize on Pant’s absence and gain control of the game. The overcast conditions favor the bowlers, promising an engaging day of cricket.

**News Article:**

**England Battles Back on Day 2 as India Faces Setbacks at Old Trafford**

**Manchester, UK** – Day two of the County cricket match at Old Trafford has begun with England looking to capitalize on early breakthroughs and overcast conditions, while India faces a significant setback with Rishabh Pant likely ruled out for the remainder of the series due to a foot injury.

India resumed their innings at 264-4, with Jadeja and Thakur at the crease. However, Pant’s potential absence casts a shadow over the Indian batting lineup, both practically and mentally, as his aggressive style and resilience are key assets.

England’s bowlers, led by Jofra Archer and Chris Woakes, aim to improve their performance from the previous day. Archer’s pace and movement with the new ball have already caused problems for the Indian batsmen, while Woakes looks to maintain his consistency and exploit the bowler-friendly conditions.

Early play saw India looking to push their score forward, with Thakur taking on the attack. However, England’s improved bowling performance is expected to create more opportunities. The overcast skies in Manchester offer swing and seam movement, giving the bowlers an advantage.

The first hour of play is crucial as both teams aim to set the tone for the day. England will be looking to take quick wickets and restrict India’s total, while India needs to build partnerships and withstand the pressure from the English attack. The absence of Pant will undoubtedly weigh on the Indian team, but they will need to find strength in their remaining batsmen to compete effectively.

Cricket fans are eagerly following the action at Old Trafford, with the match delicately poised and promising an engaging day of Test cricket.

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