England vs India 4th Test Preview and Projected Playing XI
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The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series of 2025 has been a rollercoaster, with England holding a 2-1 lead over India as they head into the fourth Test at Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester, from July 23 to 27, 2025. This match is a critical juncture: a win for England could secure the series, while India is desperate to level the scoreline and keep their hopes alive in the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship cycle. With both teams fielding strong lineups and the Old Trafford pitch promising a balanced contest, this Test is set to deliver high-octane cricket. Below, we delve into the ground conditions, projected playing XIs based on player statistics, and insights from cricketers and commentators to set the stage for this thrilling encounter.
Ground Conditions at Emirates Old Trafford
Emirates Old Trafford is one of cricket’s historic venues, known for its unpredictable pitch that can challenge both batsmen and bowlers. According to recent reports, the pitch for the fourth Test is expected to have a greenish tinge, offering early assistance to fast bowlers with good pace and bounce. This aligns with historical trends at the venue, where seamers often dominate the initial sessions. As the match progresses, the pitch typically flattens out, becoming a batsman’s paradise, with high scores possible—evidenced by Australia’s 656-run innings in a past Test. The highest successful chase at Old Trafford is 294 runs, indicating that fourth-innings pursuits are challenging, making the toss crucial, as teams often opt to bat first.
Spin bowlers may find assistance later in the match, particularly if the pitch deteriorates and offers turn. Weather in Manchester during July can be variable, with potential for rain, which could influence pitch behavior and match strategy. India’s historical record at Old Trafford is poor, with no wins in nine Tests (four losses, one draw), adding pressure to break this jinx.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pitch Characteristics | Greenish tinge, good pace and bounce, helps fast bowlers early, eases for batting later, spin assistance on older pitch |
| Historical Data | Australia scored 656 runs in one innings; highest successful chase: 294 runs |
| Toss Strategy | Teams prefer batting first; chasing in 4th innings is difficult |
| India’s Record at Venue | Played 9 Tests, 4 losses, 1 draw, never won |
Source: ABP Live - Pitch Report
Projected Playing XI
India
India’s lineup has been reshaped by injuries and form concerns. Nitish Kumar Reddy and Arshdeep Singh are confirmed absentees for the fourth Test due to injuries, while Karun Nair’s lackluster performance (131 runs in six innings at an average of 21.83, highest score of 40) has led to his exclusion. Sai Sudharsan is likely to debut at number three, bringing fresh energy to the top order. Dhruv Jurel will take over wicket-keeping duties, allowing Rishabh Pant, who is recovering from a finger injury, to focus on batting. The bowling attack is bolstered by Jasprit Bumrah’s return, with Kuldeep Yadav likely preferred over Anshul Kamboj for his spin-bowling prowess.
| Player | Role | Key Statistics (Series) |
|---|---|---|
| Yashasvi Jaiswal | Opener (LHB) | Maiden tour, aggressive batting style |
| KL Rahul | Opener (RHB) | 375 runs, Avg: 62.50, consistent performer |
| Sai Sudharsan | Batsman (LHB) | Likely debutant, strong domestic form |
| Shubman Gill (c) | Batsman (RHB) | 607 runs, Avg: 101.16, series standout |
| Rishabh Pant | Batsman (LHB) | 425 runs, Avg: 70.83, explosive middle-order |
| Dhruv Jurel | Wicket-keeper/Batsman (RHB) | Reliable keeper, solid middle-order option |
| Ravindra Jadeja | All-rounder (LHB, SLA) | 61* in 3rd Test, key all-round contributor |
| Washington Sundar | All-rounder (LHB, OB) | Balanced spin option, useful lower-order runs |
| Jasprit Bumrah | Fast Bowler (RF) | 12 wickets, Avg: 21.00, pace spearhead |
| Mohammed Siraj | Fast Bowler (RF) | 13 wickets, Avg: 32.00, aggressive seamer |
| Kuldeep Yadav | Spinner (SLC) | Likely inclusion for spin-friendly conditions |
Source: India TV - India’s Probable XI, ESPNcricinfo - Series Stats
England
England’s XI is expected to remain largely consistent, with the key change being Liam Dawson replacing Shoaib Bashir, who is sidelined with a fractured finger. The batting lineup, led by Joe Root and Ben Stokes, is formidable, while the pace attack, featuring James Anderson and Jofra Archer, is well-suited to exploit early pitch conditions. Dawson’s left-arm spin could be crucial if the pitch turns later, complementing the pace-heavy attack.
| Player | Role | Key Statistics (Series) |
|---|---|---|
| Zak Crawley | Opener (RHB) | Century in 1st Test, aggressive starter |
| Ben Duckett | Opener (LHB) | Century in 1st Test, attacking approach |
| Ollie Pope | Batsman (RHB) | Century in 1st Test, retained at No. 3 |
| Joe Root | Batsman (RHB) | 415 runs, Avg: 103.75, England’s backbone |
| Jonny Bairstow | Batsman (RHB) | Experienced middle-order, aggressive style |
| Ben Stokes (c) | All-rounder (LHB, RF) | Key all-rounder, led from front in 3rd Test |
| Ben Foakes | Wicket-keeper/Batsman (RHB) | Reliable keeper, solid lower-order batting |
| Chris Woakes | All-rounder (RHB, RFM) | Returned in 1st Test, adds depth |
| Jofra Archer | Fast Bowler (RF) | Returned in 2nd Test, pace and bounce |
| James Anderson | Fast Bowler (RFM) | Home ground, vast experience in conditions |
| Liam Dawson | Spinner (RHB, SLA) | Replaces Bashir, spin option for later stages |
Source: ESPNcricinfo - Series Updates, NDTV Sports - England Team News
Insights from Cricketers and Commentators
The series has been marked by intense battles and standout performances, as reflected in comments from players and coaches:
- Washington Sundar (India): Before the third Test, Sundar boldly predicted, “Definitely India winning tomorrow. Just after lunch.” Although India lost by 22 runs, his confidence underscores the team’s fighting spirit.
- Marcus Trescothick (England Assistant Coach): Frustrated by Shubman Gill’s dominance, Trescothick remarked, “I’m fed up of watching him bat, really,” highlighting Gill’s 607 runs at an average of 101.16, including a double century.
- Ben Stokes (England Captain): Reflecting on the series’ intensity, Stokes said, “I think I might look older than I do if we have five Test matches like that this summer,” emphasizing the closely fought nature of the contests.
- Josh Tongue (England Bowler): After cleaning up India’s lower order in the first Test, Tongue humorously noted, “I’ve done it twice now, so I might have to start calling myself that [The Mop],” showcasing his impact.
- Farokh Engineer (Former India Wicket-keeper): Criticizing Karun Nair’s form, Engineer stated, “Karun Nair has been getting brilliant 20s and 30s… But a beautiful 30 is not expected from a No. 3. You’ve got to get a not-so-beautiful 100,” reflecting the pressure on India’s batting lineup.
Source: ESPNcricinfo - Cricket Quotes, NDTV Sports - Karun Nair Criticism
Strategic Considerations
For India, the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav signals a strategy to exploit potential spin-friendly conditions later in the match, while Bumrah and Siraj will aim to capitalize on early seam movement. Shubman Gill’s leadership and batting form (607 runs) will be pivotal, especially after his 269 in the second Test. However, India’s historical struggles at Old Trafford add pressure to adapt quickly.
England, playing at home, will rely on Anderson’s experience and Archer’s pace to make early inroads. Stokes’ all-round contribution and Root’s consistency (415 runs) make them formidable. The inclusion of Dawson suggests England is preparing for a pitch that may turn, balancing their attack.
Conclusion
The fourth Test at Old Trafford is poised to be a defining moment in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series. With England leading 2-1, the pressure is on India to level the series, while England aims to clinch it. The pitch’s evolution—from seamer-friendly to batsman-friendly with potential spin—will test both teams’ adaptability. The projected XIs, informed by player statistics and recent form, reflect strategic choices tailored to the conditions. With passionate quotes from players and coaches adding to the narrative, this Test promises drama, skill, and intense competition, making it a must-watch for cricket fans worldwide.
Sources:
- ESPNcricinfo - India tour of England 2025
- India TV - India’s Probable XI
- NDTV Sports - England Team News
- ABP Live - Pitch Report
- ESPNcricinfo - Cricket Quotes
By the Paceyard Team
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