Live Ben Stokes Magic: Can He Seal the Series vs India?

Live Ben Stokes update: Battling cramps, eyeing a rare Test double as England fights to seal the series against India in Manchester.

Stokes Leads England's Charge on Pivotal Day 4 at Old Trafford

Day 4 of the 4th Test between India and England at Old Trafford has been nothing short of a spectacle, with England's captain, Benjamin Andrew Stokes, at the heart of the action. Battling physical discomfort and the relentless Indian bowling attack, Stokes has once again showcased his extraordinary all-round capabilities, pushing England closer to a series-clinching victory. With a commanding lead already established, the focus now intensifies on Stokes' personal milestones and England's strategic declaration.

As rain threatens to play spoilsport, every moment on the field is crucial. Can Stokes complete a rare Test double, and more importantly, can England's 'Bazball' approach deliver the knockout blow to India in this high-stakes encounter?

Live Match Updates

Match Update: England Extends Lead, Stokes Nears Milestone

Current Score: England 580/8 (approx. 145 overs)

England Lead: 222 runs

England resumed Day 4 at 544 for 7 and has continued to extend their lead, largely thanks to the resilience and attacking intent of their lower order, spearheaded by Ben Stokes.

Ben Stokes' Heroics: Battling Cramps, Eyeing a Rare Double

Benjamin Andrew Stokes has been the epitome of grit and determination on Day 4. Resuming his innings at 77* (from Day 3, after returning from cramps), he has continued to defy the Indian bowlers, pushing England's total higher and higher.

• Batting Masterclass: Stokes has shown a blend of aggression and caution, punishing loose deliveries while ensuring he shepherds the tail. His ability to score crucial runs under pressure is invaluable.
• Battling Cramps: The sight of Stokes battling cramps on Day 3, forcing him to temporarily retire hurt, only to return and continue his innings, highlighted his immense mental and physical fortitude. This resilience has undoubtedly inspired his teammates.
• All-Round Brilliance: Beyond his batting, Stokes already has a five-wicket haul (5/72) from India's first innings, making him the key architect of England's control. If he reaches a century, he will achieve the rare feat of a century and a five-wicket haul in the same Test, a testament to his world-class all-round abilities.
• Leading from the Front: As captain, Stokes' performance is not just about runs and wickets; it's about setting an example. His fearless approach and fighting spirit embody England's 'Bazball' philosophy.

His innings is proving to be a match-defining one, potentially sealing the fate of this Test and the series.

Joe Root's Masterful 150: The Anchor of England's Innings

While Stokes is stealing the headlines on Day 4, it's crucial to remember the foundation laid by Joe Root. His magnificent 150 (completed on Day 4 before his dismissal) was the bedrock upon which England built their formidable total.

Root's innings showcased his classic Test match temperament, combining elegant strokeplay with unwavering concentration. His partnership with Stokes was pivotal in taking the game away from India, ensuring England's lead became substantial.

England's Commanding Position: On the Brink of Sealing the Series

With a lead now well over 200 runs, England is in an incredibly dominant position. The strategic decision of when to declare will be crucial, balancing the desire to maximize runs with the need to give their bowlers enough time to take 10 Indian wickets.

England currently leads the five-match series 2-1. A victory in this 4th Test at Old Trafford would secure the series for them, making the final Test at The Oval a dead rubber. The team's aggressive 'Bazball' philosophy is designed precisely for such scenarios – to score quickly and create opportunities for outright wins.

The pressure is now entirely on India to not only survive but also to score enough runs to make a game of it.

India's Uphill Battle: Can They Respond to the Pressure?

For India, Day 4 has been a test of patience and resilience. While their bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja, have toiled hard, they have found it difficult to dislodge the set English batsmen quickly enough.

When India comes out to bat in their second innings, they will face a daunting task. The pitch will have worn further, and England's bowlers, energized by their team's strong position, will be relentless. India's top order will need to show exceptional application and fight to save the match, let alone chase down a potentially massive target.

Weather Watch: Rain Continues to Threaten Play

The weather at Old Trafford on Day 4 (July 26, 2025) has been unpredictable, with intermittent rain showers causing frustrating delays.

• Interruptions: Several rain interruptions have already occurred, leading to covers coming on and off, and reducing the total overs bowled.
• Impact on Declaration: For England, these delays mean less time to bowl India out. Stokes will need to consider the remaining overs and the forecast for Day 5 before declaring.
• Pitch Conditions: The dampness from the rain can initially aid seam bowlers, but prolonged periods under covers might also make the pitch slower.

The weather remains a crucial factor that could influence the final outcome of this Test match.

Match Outlook: England Dominates, India Fights for Survival

Day 4 has been a testament to England's aggressive intent and the individual brilliance of Ben Stokes and Joe Root. With a substantial lead, England is in a commanding position to push for a series-clinching victory.

India faces a monumental challenge. They will need to bat with extreme discipline and determination to save the match, let alone mount a counter-attack. The weather adds another layer of complexity, but the stage is set for a gripping final day (or two) of Test cricket. All eyes will be on how India responds to the immense pressure.