18 years since India won a Test series in England. A whole generation of stars have come and gone Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Harbhajan Singh, Ashwin, Gambhir and many more. Big names, big hopes. But none of them could get the job done on English soil.
The closest India came was in 2021 when they were 2-1 up. But then the pandemic hit. The final Test was pushed to 2022 and when it finally happened India let it slip. England chased down a big total and the series ended in a draw. Another missed chance.
Now in 2025 India are behind again 2-1 down in the 5 match series. And once again everything is riding on the last two Tests.
The 4th Test started today in Manchester and England captain Ben Stokes won the toss and chose to bowl first.
This Indian team led by Shubman Gill has made a few changes. Sai Sudharsan, Shardul Thakur and Anshul Kamboj are in the playing XI.
Injuries and poor form have forced India’s hand. But maybe just maybe this new mix can change the story.
At the first drinks break India were 35/0. KL Rahul looked solid on 25 from 45 balls while Yashasvi Jaiswal stayed calm on 12 from 36. A steady start but the road ahead is long.
Fans haven’t forgotten 2021. Some still talk about how close India came. Others are backing the young blood. Many are saying it’s time for Gill and Rahul to step up and do what the greats couldn’t.
Can India finally win and make it 2-2 going into the last Test. The Manchester Test is more than just a match it’s a shot at history. Will this be the team that ends the long wait? Let’s see.
