India launched their innings in emphatic style on Day 1 of the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, reaching 78 without loss at lunch. Openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal put together a fluent and disciplined partnership that not only frustrated the English bowlers but also set a strong foundation for the visitors on a pitch expected to offer early swing and seam.
KL Rahul, returning to the top of the order, was composed and assured in his shot selection. His innings was marked by elegance and restraint, picking gaps and punishing overpitched deliveries. By the end of the session, Rahul had not only contributed significantly to the team’s total but also reached a personal milestone—becoming only the fifth Indian to score over 1,000 Test runs in England. This achievement puts him in elite company, joining legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli, and Sunil Gavaskar.
At the other end, Jaiswal showcased his growing maturity as a Test opener. He was steady yet proactive, handling the new ball with confidence. A brief interruption due to his bat breaking after fending off a short ball did not shake his composure. Instead, he rebuilt rhythm quickly and ensured England’s bowlers never gained early momentum. His drives through the covers and solid defensive technique stood out, and his willingness to rotate the strike kept the scoreboard moving.
The decision by England captain Ben Stokes to bowl first—defying the venue’s historical trend of favoring teams that bat early—seemed to backfire in the morning session. Under overcast skies, England expected lateral movement and early wickets, but India’s openers were technically sound and tactically smart, neutralizing the threat with ease. Neither Woakes, Archer, nor Carse could extract enough help from the surface or conditions to trouble the well-set pair.
This opening partnership is particularly notable as it marks India’s first fifty-plus stand at Old Trafford since 1946—a remarkable stat that underscores how challenging this venue has been for Indian openers historically. That Rahul and Jaiswal achieved this with such control speaks volumes about their preparation and adaptability.
As the game progresses into the afternoon and evening sessions, India will look to capitalize on this strong start. With the platform set, a big first-innings total could put them firmly in command and shift pressure back onto England, who are already being questioned for their decision to bowl first.
KL Rahul’s landmark and Jaiswal’s poise symbolize a generational bridge—experience and youth combining to lay the groundwork for what could be a defining innings in this crucial Test. If the duo continues to build, India will not just have broken a long-standing record at Old Trafford, but also potentially turned the tide in the series.