ENG vs IND [WATCH]: Chris Woakes strikes twice in the first over removing Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan as England take control on Day 4

Day 4 of the fourth Test between England and India has been nothing short of spectacular for the hosts in Manchester. After extending their lead beyond 300 runs, England had a dream start as their frontline bowler Chris Woakes produced magic in the very first over of India’s second innings.

Chris Woakes strikes twice in first over as India collapse early on Day 4

The Indian batters walked in under immense pressure, with a mountain to climb on a surface that had started offering plenty for the bowlers. With the pitch showing variable bounce and movement, England’s pacers wasted no time in making an impact.

Woakes set the tone early, removing Yashasvi Jaiswal in the very first over. The left-hander, after moving across his stumps, attempted a flick but was squared up by the movement away. The ball caught the leading edge and flew towards first slip, where Joe Root juggled it awkwardly before calmly completing the catch on the second attempt. The very next ball brought more trouble for India. Debutant Sai Sudharsan, unsure whether to play or leave, was surprised by extra bounce. The ball touched the bottom edge of his bat and flew to slip, where Harry Brook made no mistake. Two wickets had fallen within five deliveries — with India yet to get off the mark — handing England a dream start and tightening their grip on the game.

Here’s the video:

TWO IN TWO!

Nicked straight to Harry Brook. WHAT A START! 🤯

🇮🇳 0️⃣-2️⃣

— England Cricket (@englandcricket)

Also READ: Jasprit Bumrah set to retire from Test cricket? Mohammad Kaif drops a bombshell

England are in the driving seat at Old Trafford

England are firmly in the driver’s seat in this crucial Test at Old Trafford. After Root’s masterclass with the bat on Day 3, it was skipper Ben Stokes who rose to the occasion with a record-breaking century, further widening the gap between the two sides. Stokes, alongside Brydon Carse, launched a fierce assault on the Indian bowlers during the morning session of Day 4, leaving the visitors reeling.

India, meanwhile, looked largely ineffective with the ball. Jasprit Bumrah, who appeared slightly off rhythm, still managed to pick up two wickets, but lacked his usual bite. Ravindra Jadeja was the only bowler who showed consistent fight, ending with a four-wicket haul that kept some pressure on the English lower order. Now, the onus lies on India’s batters to steady the ship and resist the English charge. With more than four sessions left in the match, England are overwhelming favourites from this point onward.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Ben Stokes makes history with powerful century vs India on Day 4 of fourth Test in Manchester