India fight back as fourth Test hangs in the balance

After the fireworks, the frustration for England. Their ideal morning session was followed by an unrewarding slog in the afternoon and evening.

- RICHARD JOLLY

A series that might have been over yesterday extends to today, perhaps to The Oval and, if India’s powers of recovery continue there, may not be won at all.

They must confront the twin obstacles of the Manchester weather, with rain forecast for the morning, and India’s defiance. Obdurate batting from Shubman Gill and KL Rahul roused India from the depths of 0-2, a century partnership giving men on 78 and 87 chances to record hundreds of their own.

But in a series when every game has gone to the final day, when England’s two victories have been hard-fought, perhaps it is fitting that, once again, they go to a fifth morning with no easy task.

In a game shaped by injuries, two have the potential to be decisive. Ben Stokes had left his imprint on the game with bat and ball but is yet to bowl in the second innings, though the series’ leading wicket-taker could do with more rest and treatment. “We are hoping so,” said assistant coach Marcus Trescothick. “He is a bit stiff and sore. He has had a big workload in the last few weeks. I think it is just a buildup.” For India, it remains to be seen when and how Rishabh Pant will bat, though they confirmed he will.