Sai Sudharsan fifty anchored India to a competitive 264 for 4 on a slow, attritional opening day against England at Old Trafford, Manchester. Under overcast skies and in swinging conditions, India showed resilience with Sai Sudharsan scoring a gritty maiden Test half-century after being recalled to the side.
Sai Sudharsan Fifty Rescues India Early On
India began solidly with Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul adding 94 for the first wicket. Jaiswal scored his third fifty-plus score on this England tour with a patient 58, while Rahul continued his overseas dominance with a composed 46. But it was Sai Sudharsan fifty that stood out, soaking pressure and weathering England’s disciplined bowling.
Injury to Pant Shocks the Camp
India lost Rishabh Pant to a concerning foot injury after a failed reverse sweep attempt. The Sai Sudharsan fifty came shortly after, as he partnered with Pant for a crucial 72-run stand. Pant’s exit—retiring hurt on 37—came as a setback, with a visible bruise suggesting a serious injury that forced him off via ambulance cart.
Stokes and England Stay in the Game
Ben Stokes, who dismissed Sai Sudharsan for the third straight time in Tests, led England’s bowling fightback. While India never lost control, they also couldn’t accelerate. The Sai Sudharsan fifty was central to India’s steady approach, even as wickets fell at regular intervals—Rahul to Woakes, Jaiswal to Dawson, Gill to Stokes, and finally Sudharsan himself.
Historic Toss Record Looms
Stokes’ decision to bowl first at Old Trafford raised eyebrows. No team has ever won a Test here after doing so, making India’s 264 for 4 a strong response. The Sai Sudharsan fifty now stands as a potential turning point as this series finale hangs in the balance.
Slow Tempo, Tight Bowling
England bowlers, despite the low strike rate, kept India in check. Chris Woakes and Ben Stokes each claimed two wickets, while Liam Dawson made an impact on return with a vital wicket. The Sai Sudharsan fifty was the first by a No. 3 for India since their 2024 defeat to New Zealand—a sign of patience and discipline.
Crowd Trouble, But Steady Cricket
With fans delayed outside due to long queues and bag checks, many missed a sluggish first session. Inside the ground, the Sai Sudharsan fifty gave them something to cheer amid tight bowling and slow run rates. Brook’s antics between overs added humor, but the day belonged to Sudharsan’s resilience.
Final Thoughts as Stumps Called
Shardul Thakur and Ravindra Jadeja ensured no further damage under fading light. With the second new ball delayed, the Sai Sudharsan fifty remains the highlight of a hard-fought day. India ended on 264 for 4, and the Test match is delicately poised.
India vs South Africa Champions T20: Match Preview, Squad, Timing & Live Streaming – WCL 2025