India pulled off a miraculous draw against England in the fourth Test, with Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar batting brilliantly to save the match on the final day.
The Unbelievable Draw
What seemed like an inevitable defeat turned into a historic draw for India. On the final day of the fourth Test, trailing by a massive 311 runs, India battled tirelessly against England.
All-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar were the heroes, both notching up well-deserved centuries. Jadeja remained unbeaten on 107, while Sundar matched him with 101 not out. Their monumental partnership frustrated England, leading captain Ben Stokes to call for a handshake, conceding the draw.
A Historic Comeback
This draw wasn’t just a save; it was a rewrite of history. India batted for an astounding 143 overs, losing just four wickets, after conceding a first-innings lead of 311 runs. This feat has only been achieved twice before by India in Test cricket after such a large deficit.
The series, which looked set to go 3-1 in England’s favor, is now magically alive at 2-1. This momentum shift could be crucial heading into the final Test at Oval.
Coach Gambhir’s Vision
Indian coach Gautam Gambhir praised his team’s resilience. He believes coming out of such high-pressure moments instills immense confidence in the dressing room.
Gambhir emphasized that this team is forging its own path. “I don’t remember any of my knocks, it’s history. These players will make their own history,” he stated, highlighting the squad’s unique character and potential.
Resilience Under Pressure
This Indian team has shown an incredible refusal to give up. Despite starting the innings at 0 for 2, a crucial 188-run partnership between KL Rahul (90) and Shubman Gill (103) laid the foundation.
Even when Rahul and Gill departed, leaving India at 223 for four, Jadeja and Sundar stepped up. They absorbed immense pressure from the English bowlers, nullifying every tactic Stokes threw at them.
Their calm demeanor and solid play diluted the opposition’s aggression. Even Rishabh Pant, despite a fractured foot, was ready to contribute, showcasing the team’s commitment.
- India drew the Test after conceding a 311-run first-innings lead.
- Ravindra Jadeja (107*) and Washington Sundar (101*) scored unbeaten centuries.
- India batted for 143 overs in their second innings, losing only four wickets.
- Coach Gautam Gambhir believes the draw will give India an “edge” for the final Test.
- The series score now stands at 2-1 in England’s favor, keeping India’s hopes alive.
This pivotal draw not only saved the series but also underlined the new culture and character emerging within the Indian team, signaling a transition that might already be complete.
