England Rules Day 2 In Spite of Rishabh Pant's Gallant Knock in 4th Test against India

The second day of the fourth Test match between India and England at Old Trafford Manchester saw the limelight being moved from a heroic comeback by Rishabh Pant to an England batmaster response. Although Pant's century with the bat was an inspiration for the Indian team it was England who finished the day on top. They demonstrated resolute intent with the bat and closed on 225 for 2 still behind India by 133 runs but clearly in charge heading into Day 3 of the Anderson Tendulkar Trophy match.

India had scored a total of 358 in their first innings which provided them with a good lead. The innings saw Rishabh Pant's return to the crease despite him being injured. Pant had been injured on the first day due to his foot, but he didn't show any indications of not giving his best as he came forward to bat despite the injury. The audience marvelled at his grit as he battled valiantly and hit 54 runs in a counter-attacking style. His innings was punctuated with aggressive shots and astute placements but his stay was short-lived in the face of an unplayable ball from Jofra Archer that dislodged his stumps. Pant's innings was not only about the runs but also about the fighting spirit he showed which belied Indian fans and his team-mates as well.

On the bowling front for England, Ben Stokes spearheaded the attack and was by far the most effective bowler. He bowled with accuracy and control and took five wickets conceding only 72 runs. His spell gave England a chance to stay in the match by denying India from taking an even larger score. Archer too made significant contribution particularly his bowling out of Pant that changed the momentum in favor of the English just when India was attempting to take charge.

When England went on to bat their openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett provided them with the ideal start. The two of them batted steadily and they established a good partnership of 166 runs for the first wicket. Duckett lost a richly deserved century as he got out for 94 but his innings was rich in pretty strokes and crease control. On the opposite side Crawley played a useful innings himself scoring 84 and ensuring that the pressure stayed on the Indian bowlers throughout the day. The two batsmen were able to navigate the Indian bowling attack with ease and left England in control by the time stumps were drawn.

The Indian bowlers were unable to create a breakthrough for the majority of the day. Ravindra Jadeja managed to achieve the first breakthrough by sending Duckett back and Anshul Kamboj was also able to take Crawley's wicket. Those two wickets, however, served only to hinder the progress of England slightly. Jadeja and Kamboj bowled in spells but the English batsmen appeared adequately prepared and played without any difficulty. The Indians experimented with different field positions and bowling spells but none of them seemed effective against the strong English top order.

With the end of play on Day 2, England had scored 225 for the loss of only 2 wickets and were still 133 runs short of India's score. The run rate was almost five runs per over indicating the aggressive strategy used by the English team.

This day was all England's with both Duckett and Crawley getting things started and Ben Stokes finishing the job with the ball. But it was also remembered for Rishabh Pant's valiant innings that exhibited his never give up attitude. Returning to play in agony and yet scoring a half-century is a huge indication of his commitment and mental strength. People were happy to have him playing again and it reminded everyone of how much he means to the Indian team.

As the fourth Test goes on India will be hoping to come back on Day 3 and attempt to change the momentum in their direction. They will require early wickets to prevent England from gaining the lead. Indian bowlers have a huge task at hand particularly with the wicket not providing much assistance. England, on the other hand, will seek to capitalize on their good start and register a first innings lead that can put them in charge of the game. With the series at a crucial point every session from now on will be important and both teams will need to bring their best game to the field.

Ultimately Day 2 was a blend of determination and dominance. Although Pant's comeback and his courageous fifty were winning hearts it was England's unblemished and confident batting that established the tone for the day. Manchester crowd saw quality cricket from both teams and the match is now poised for a thrilling Day 3 as India will look to stage a comeback and England will attempt to establish a healthy lead.