As the much-anticipated fourth Test between England and India unfolded at Manchester’s Old Trafford on July 23, 2025, cricket fans were treated to a high-stakes contest marked by momentum shifts and individual brilliance. England, having dominated Day 2 with a commanding batting display, looked set to overhaul India’s first-innings total of 358 as the action resumed on Day 3. The morning was all about the hosts, thanks largely to the resolute partnership between Joe Root and Ollie Pope. But, just as England seemed poised to snatch full control, Washington Sundar delivered a moment of magic that reignited India’s hopes.

Washongton Sundar finds the breakthrough as KL Rahul grabs a spectacular  catch to dismiss Ollie Pope

England began Day 3 at 225/2, trailing by 133, and immediately went on the attack under bright skies. Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett’s foundation allowed Pope and Root to build steadily, their approach equally measured and assertive. India’s bowlers, lacking penetration, struggled to create chances. Even minor opportunities—like a missed run-out and a dropped chance for Pope—went begging, exacerbating India’s frustrations.

By lunch, both Pope and Root had cruised past their half-centuries, the third-wicket stand swelling beyond 130. England crossed 300 with ease, scoring 107 runs in the wicketless first session and whittling India’s lead down to just 26 by the break. Root, ever the maestro, not only bolstered the total but also reached a personal landmark, becoming the first batter to score 1,000 Test runs at Old Trafford and ascending to third on the all-time run-scorers’ list at the venue.

But the script flipped early in the second session. At 341/2, India desperately needed inspiration. It arrived via Washington Sundar. With the second new ball around the corner, Sundar used subtle drift to lure Pope into a false shot—flicking at an off-stump line, Pope’s edge carrying low to KL Rahul at slip, who made no mistake. Pope’s well-constructed 71 off 128 balls ended, the breakthrough halting England’s charge and prizing open an end just as India needed most.

Here’s the video:

#WashingtonSundar to the rescue! 😎

A timely breakthrough as he dismisses the well-set #OlliePope.#ENGvIND 👉 4th TEST, DAY 3 | LIVE NOW on JioHotstar 👉 https://t.co/l55AM1kN1p pic.twitter.com/uieVv9b4Hp

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) July 25, 2025

Also READ: ENG vs IND: Fans express outrage as Ollie Pope and Joe Root frustrate Indian bowling lineup on Day 3 of fourth Test

India’s resilience after Lunch makes way for a comeback against England 

The significance of Sundar’s wicket was immediately apparent. England’s daylight domination had threatened to drown out any chance of an Indian resurgence, but Pope’s dismissal lit a spark. The bowlers seized on this opportunity: Sundar struck again soon after, removing Harry Brook, as India clawed back much-needed momentum.

The match flow shifted perceptibly. England, once cruising, entered choppier waters as wickets began to fall. With the new ball in play and the lead trimmed to single digits, India tightened lines and ramped up their intensity. The bowlers finally found their rhythm and exerted pressure, reversing what had been a long morning of toil and disappointment. The atmosphere, both in the dressing room and among supporters, transformed: from resignation to hope.

At Brook’s dismissal England were 349/4 after 80.1 overs, England trailed by just 9, but the psychological advantage had tilted. Root remained unbeaten, yet the complexion of the game was thoroughly altered thanks to Sundar’s breakthrough. India, having struggled in the field for long stretches, now had a foot-hold.

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