India National Cricket Team vs England Cricket Team Match Update Today
Live updates, key details, and highlights from today’s Test clash.
Match Details
Match: 4th Test, India Tour of England 2025
Teams: India National Cricket Team vs England Cricket Team
Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Match Status: Day 1 - Play Delayed (Rain)
Toss: England won the toss and elected to bowl first.
Series Status: England lead 2-1
Current Weather: Overcast, light rain (as per latest updates)
Day 1 Begins with Rain Delay at Old Trafford
The highly anticipated fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy between the India National Cricket Team and the England Cricket Team is scheduled to commence today, July 23, 2025, at the iconic Old Trafford ground in Manchester. However, the start of play has been delayed due to persistent rain, casting a shadow over the opening day's proceedings. With England holding a 2-1 lead in the five-match series, this encounter is crucial for India, who are eager to level the series.
The toss, which was initially scheduled for 3:00 PM IST, has taken place, with England winning it and opting to bowl first. This decision comes as no surprise given the overcast conditions and the potential for swing and seam movement. However, the wet weather has prevented any play from commencing, leaving players and fans in a frustrating wait.
Live Updates and Commentary
3:30 PM IST: Official start of play is delayed due to persistent rain. The covers remain firmly on the pitch and square.
3:15 PM IST: Toss completed! England captain Ben Stokes wins the toss and elects to bowl first under overcast skies. India captain Shubman Gill confirms three changes to the Indian playing XI. Sai Sudharsan comes in for Karun Nair, Anshul Kamboj makes his Test debut replacing the injured Akash Deep, and Shardul Thakur replaces Nitish Reddy.
3:00 PM IST: The toss has taken place. More details to follow on the playing XIs and captain's comments.
2:45 PM IST: Heavy rain is currently reported at Old Trafford. Ground staff are diligently ensuring the pitch remains protected under the covers.
2:30 PM IST: Overcast conditions continue to dominate in Manchester. Both teams are in their respective dressing rooms, awaiting further updates from the match officials regarding the start of play.
2:00 PM IST: Reports indicate that the outfield is quite damp due to consistent rainfall over the past few days, adding to the challenge for the ground staff.
Pitch and Weather Conditions at Old Trafford
The Damp Old Trafford Surface
The Old Trafford pitch has been under covers for an extended period due to the continuous rainfall in Manchester. While historically known for offering pace and bounce, the current dampness is expected to make it highly conducive to swing and seam bowling. This will be a significant factor, especially for England's decision to bowl first, looking to exploit the conditions with their pace attack.
Overcast Skies and Rain Forecast
The weather forecast for today, July 23, 2025, indicates predominantly cloudy skies with a high chance of rain, particularly in the afternoon. Temperatures are cool, ranging between 15°C and 19°C. These conditions are ideal for fast bowlers, but also pose a constant threat of further interruptions, potentially limiting the amount of play possible on Day 1.
Team Lineups and Key Changes
India National Cricket Team Playing XI:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Sai Sudharsan (in for Karun Nair)
- Shubman Gill (c)
- Rishabh Pant (wk)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Washington Sundar
- Shardul Thakur (in for Nitish Reddy)
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
- Anshul Kamboj (Test debut, in for Akash Deep)
India has made three significant changes, including a Test debut for Anshul Kamboj, reflecting the impact of injuries and strategic adjustments.
England Cricket Team Playing XI:
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Ollie Pope
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Ben Stokes (c)
- Jamie Smith (wk)
- Liam Dawson (in for Shoaib Bashir)
- Chris Woakes
- Brydon Carse
- Jofra Archer
England has made one forced change, bringing in Liam Dawson for the injured Shoaib Bashir.
Match Context and Implications
With England leading the series 2-1, this fourth Test is a crucial juncture. India needs a win to level the series and force a decider in the final Test. The rain delay on Day 1, if prolonged, could significantly impact India's chances by reducing the available playing time to force a result. For England, any result other than a loss would be favorable as they aim to seal the series. The match promises to be a gripping contest, heavily influenced by both the conditions and the tactical decisions made by the captains.
Awaiting the Action at Old Trafford
As the cricketing world waits for the rain to subside in Manchester, the anticipation for the India vs England 4th Test remains high. Despite the frustrating start, the stage is set for a compelling battle between two strong teams. Fans are urged to stay tuned for live updates as soon as play is able to commence at Old Trafford.
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