Fri Jul 25 07:00:00 UTC 2025: **England Seize Control at Old Trafford as Stokes, Crawley, and Duckett Shine**
**Manchester, UK** – England dominated day two of the fourth Test against India at Old Trafford, fueled by a remarkable bowling performance from Ben Stokes and a blistering opening partnership between Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett.
India, who resumed on 264-4, were eventually dismissed for 358, with Stokes claiming his first five-wicket haul in eight years (5-72) and Jofra Archer bagging 3-73. Rishabh Pant provided a moment of high drama, returning to bat at number eight despite a suspected broken foot. Hobbling to the crease, he managed a gritty 54 before Archer cleaned him up with a stunning delivery.
England’s response was explosive. Crawley (84) and Duckett (94) launched a fearless assault on the Indian bowlers, racing to a 166-run opening stand at a rate of over five runs per over. Though both fell in quick succession, Ollie Pope and Joe Root steered England to 225-2 at stumps, trailing by just 133 runs.
Stokes’ all-round performance was particularly impressive, exceeding expectations with both bat and ball. Crawley was equally pleased with his form, saying his team were in a good place to build a lead and win.
The day was not without its drama, with Pant’s courageous return to the crease capturing the hearts of the crowd. Despite his injury, Pant managed to add valuable runs to India’s total before being dismissed. His return to the crease was as remarkable as it was unexpected.
With three days remaining, England are in a strong position to secure a victory that would give them an unassailable lead in the series.
First Piper 