India vs England 4th Test Draw: Drama, Records, and What’s Next

The India vs England 4th Test ended in high drama. It looked like a dull draw at first. But in the final session, things turned tense. England offered a handshake to close the match early. India denied it. Why? Because Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar were in their 80s. They were chasing centuries. That led to frustration in the England camp.

Soon after, Joe Root and Harry Brook bowled part-time overs. It looked like a friendly game. But behind the smiles, pressure was real. Root made headlines by matching Sunil Gavaskar’s record for most 4th-innings hundreds. He also crossed 500 runs in the series. This match became a mix of sportsmanship, mind games, and personal milestones.

Day-Wise Match Timeline and Tactical Highlights

India batted first after losing the toss. England hoped to strike early, but KL Rahul and Shubman Gill handled the new ball calmly. The Manchester pitch offered bounce on Day 1. But it was flat enough for strokeplay.

By Day 5, Washington and Jadeja built on the platform. They played with patience, targeting the straight boundaries. Jadeja took his time, attacking spinners only.

On Day 3, India pushed the score past 450. England’s bowlers were tired. Mark Wood tried short balls, but Jadeja was solid. Sundar joined him after Rahul fell.

By Day 4, India had full control. Both left-handers neared centuries. England saw no way to win. They offered a draw. India declined.

Root and Brook bowled non-serious overs late. India declared after Jadeja got out on 91. The match ended in a handshake, but the debate continues.

Pitch Behavior and Heatwave Impact

The Manchester pitch is usually lively early. But this time, it played slowly. Bounce was consistent. There was little help for spinners on Days 1–2.

Day 3 saw some reverse swing. But the surface remained batter-friendly. Heat played a huge role. Temperatures touched 31°C in some sessions.

That dried out the surface. Made it easier to bat longer. Fast bowlers struggled. England’s pace attack, especially Anderson and Woakes, looked tired. Spin had no bite, unlike sri lanka bowlers.

Humidity was low. The outfield was fast. India took advantage. Jadeja and Sundar rotated strike well. Root too batted with freedom due to a lack of swing.

• Heat reduced lateral movement.
• Slower surface meant fewer edges.
• Reverse swing came only in patches.

England’s Bowling Strategy – And Why It Failed

• England started with discipline.

• Plan A was an early swing. Failed due to heat.

• Plan B was short balls. Didn’t trouble Jadeja.

• Plan C was friendly bowling to fast-forward the game.

The moment India denied the draw, England gave up control. Root and Brook bowled laughably wide deliveries. This invited criticism. Many said England lacked fight. India looked serious till the very end.

Controversy – Why India Refused the Handshake

India’s message was clear: “Let our batters reach centuries.” Jadeja was on 91. Sundar was on 80+. Both had waited long for this. They did not want to miss out. England’s offer of an early handshake was turned down.

This led to visible frustration. England’s captain Ben Stokes had a word with the umpires. Players exchanged a few words. Eventually, the mood lightened. But fans on both sides noticed the tension.

📌 Root: “It was friendly, but not unserious.”
📌 Shubhman Gill: “Let the players play it out.”

Was it unsportsmanlike? Or just emotional? Opinions vary.

Batting Shot Analysis – Who Played What, Where?

• Jadeja attacked spin with slog sweeps.

• Sundar stayed back and punched gaps.

• Root milked singles with smart angles.

• Gill avoided cross-bat shots. Played down the ground.

India’s batters played with discipline. England’s batters took more risks. But Root adapted better to slow turn and hot weather.

Series Records So Far – Root Closing in on History

The 4th Test ended in a draw, but gave fans a lot. From drama to records, the match had it all. Jadeja and Sundar proved their maturity. Root stamped his greatness, like south africa.

The final Test now becomes a decider in spirit. England wants pride. India wants history. All eyes are on July 31.

Gill is now equal with Sunil Gavaskar for the most 4th-innings hundreds. He has one more match to break it. With 722 runs, he is also closing in on the top all-time series run scorers.

5th Test Preview – Who Will Play and What to Expect?

The 5th Test between India and England starts on July 31 at The Oval. India leads the series 2–1. They are just one win away from a famous overseas series victory. If England win, the series will end 2–2, keeping their home record intact.

The biggest question for India is: Will Kuldeep Yadav play?

The Oval pitch has a history of turning late in the match. It supports wrist spinners more than off-spinners. Kuldeep Yadav has waited through four Tests. This might finally be his chance. If the pitch looks dry, he could replace a fast bowler.

Washington Sundar also remains in contention. His batting has been strong. He offers control of the ball. He might keep his place, especially if India wants a deep batting lineup.

Another talking point is workload management. Jasprit Bumrah has bowled many overs in this series. Same for Mohammed Siraj. India might rest one of them.

On England’s side, eyes are on Joe Root. He has scored 522 runs so far. If he gets a big score at The Oval, he will break Sunil Gavaskar’s record of most 4th-innings Test centuries. Root is also chasing the record for most runs in a five-match series against India.

Conditions, pressure, and records — this final Test has it all. Oval will decide the winner, the legacy, and the headlines.