Historic Innings by Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, and Ravindra Jadeja Save India in Thrilling 4th Test Draw Against England

In a breathtaking display of resilience and skill, Indian cricket stars Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, and Ravindra Jadeja delivered historic innings to secure a dramatic draw in the 4th Test against England at Old Trafford, Manchester, on July 27, 2025. Their monumental efforts kept India’s hopes alive in the five-match series, with the scoreline remaining 2-1 in England’s favor as the teams head into the final Test. This inspiring performance has captivated cricket fans worldwide and is a testament to India’s fighting spirit.

Shubman Gill’s Record-Breaking Century Steers India to Safety

Captain Shubman Gill led from the front with a sensational 103 off 238 balls, anchoring India’s second innings with composure and class. His fourth century of the series made him the first Indian to achieve this feat in a Test series in England, surpassing Virat Kohli’s record of 655 runs in a series against England in 2016. Gill’s knock was pivotal in overturning a daunting 311-run deficit, forging a 174-run partnership with KL Rahul that lasted 417 balls and frustrated England’s bowling attack. Despite falling to Jofra Archer just before lunch, Gill’s innings laid the foundation for India’s resistance.

KL Rahul’s Gritty 90 Bolsters India’s Fightback

KL Rahul played a crucial supporting role, scoring a resolute 90 off 230 balls. His disciplined batting alongside Gill ensured India survived two wicketless sessions on Day 4, reducing England’s lead to 137 runs by stumps. Rahul’s innings ended agonizingly short of a century when Ben Stokes trapped him lbw with a low-keeping delivery, but his contribution was vital in setting the tone for India’s defiance. Rahul’s performance also brought him within 11 runs of joining Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, and Rahul Dravid in the elite group of Indian batters with 1,000 Test runs in England.

Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar’s Heroic Centuries Seal the Draw

With India still trailing by 88 runs at lunch on Day 5 and facing a precarious situation, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar stepped up with remarkable centuries. Jadeja, dropped on the first ball by Joe Root, capitalized on the reprieve to score an unbeaten 100, showcasing his trademark resilience. Washington Sundar, promoted to No. 5, played with fluency and tempo, smashing a six and a four en route to his maiden Test century. Their 139-run partnership erased England’s lead, taking India to 419/4 and a 108-run advantage by the evening session. When England captain Ben Stokes offered a draw, India, with Jadeja and Sundar nearing their milestones, refused, batting on to secure their tons and the draw. This heroic stand ensured India fought back from a near-impossible position.

England’s Dominance Thwarted by India’s Resilience

England, powered by Ben Stokes’ 141 and Joe Root’s 150, had posted a mammoth 669 in their first innings, taking a 311-run lead over India’s 358. Stokes’ century, his first in over two years, and a five-wicket haul (5/72) put England in a commanding position. However, India’s batters, led by Gill and Rahul, and later Jadeja and Sundar, neutralized England’s attack on a flattening pitch. Despite Jofra Archer’s breakthroughs and Stokes’ relentless bowling, England could only manage four wickets across 142 overs, with rain forecasts adding to their challenges. The draw was a testament to India’s depth and determination.

Key Moments and Records from the 4th Test

• Shubman Gill’s Historic Feat: Gill’s 722 runs in the series rank him third among Indian run-scorers in a Test series, behind Sunil Gavaskar’s 774 and 732. He also matched Garry Sobers’ record for most runs by a captain in a Test series in SENA countries.
• Jadeja’s All-Round Brilliance: Jadeja’s century and four wickets (4/143) in England’s innings underscored his value as an all-rounder, making him the first player to score 2,000 runs and take 100 wickets in World Test Championship history.
• Sundar’s Breakthrough Ton: Washington Sundar’s century, complemented by his 2/107 with the ball, marked a coming-of-age performance, proving his worth as a batting all-rounder.
• Rahul’s Near-Milestone: KL Rahul’s 90 took him to 989 Test runs in England, just shy of a historic milestone.
• England’s Record Total: England’s 669 was their highest Test total at Old Trafford, surpassing Australia’s 656/8 from 1964.

India’s Batting Depth Shines Despite Challenges

India faced early setbacks with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan falling for ducks in the first over to Chris Woakes. Rishabh Pant’s injury further strained India’s resources, but the depth provided by Jadeja, Sundar, and Shardul Thakur (41 in the first innings) ensured stability. The team’s refusal to accept Stokes’ draw offer reflected their determination to fight until the end, with Jadeja and Sundar’s centuries capping a memorable performance.

What’s Next for India and England?

With the series poised at 2-1, the fifth Test promises a thrilling conclusion. India, buoyed by this draw, will look to level the series, with Gill’s leadership and the all-round contributions of Jadeja and Sundar providing momentum. England, despite their dominance, will rue missed opportunities but remain favorites with Stokes and Root in top form. Cricket fans can expect a blockbuster finale as both teams vie for the Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy.

Why This Match Matters for Cricket Fans

This match showcased Test cricket at its finest—grit, skill, and drama. Shubman Gill’s record-breaking series, KL Rahul’s steely resolve, and the centuries from Jadeja and Sundar have inspired Indian cricket fans and kept the series alive. For England, Stokes’ all-round heroics and Root’s milestone-laden series highlight their strength. This draw is a reminder of cricket’s enduring appeal, with every session delivering moments of brilliance.

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