England resumed Day Three of the fourth Test against India at 225 for 2, with Joe Root and Ollie Pope continuing their strong overnight stand. The pair batted with confidence through the morning session, keeping the scoreboard ticking and frustrating the Indian bowlers.
They added 107 runs in 28 overs without losing a wicket, taking England to within striking distance of India’s first innings total. By lunch, England trailed by just 26 runs and were in a dominant position.
However, the momentum briefly swung India’s way in the second session. Washington Sundar broke the partnership by dismissing Ollie Pope for a well-made 71. He struck again shortly after to remove Harry Brook, giving India a glimmer of hope.
Despite the quick blows, England stayed composed as captain Ben Stokes joined Joe Root at the crease. The experienced pair steadied the innings and soon took England past India’s total, turning the pressure back on the visitors.
Stokes and Root looked comfortable against the spinners, prompting India to take the new ball early in the 91st over. Mohammed Siraj was brought back into the attack and made an immediate impact. On the very first delivery with the new ball, Siraj produced a sharp delivery that jagged back into Stokes from a short length.
The ball struck the England skipper flush on the box, causing him visible pain. The impact sent Stokes to the ground, and Siraj, sensing an opportunity, charged in to apply pressure. Stokes remained down for a few moments, clearly in discomfort, as the stadium held its breath. He eventually managed to get back on his feet with the help of his bat, greeted by an ovation from the crowd for his resilience and toughness.
Thoughts and prayers for Ben Stokes 😅😅😅 pic.twitter.com/2RiAGkOKLF
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 25, 2025
Despite the scare, Stokes was able to shake off the blow and continued his innings without further issue. His ability to regroup and carry on exemplified the determination of the England side, who were firmly in control by the end of the session. With Root still unbeaten and Stokes showing no signs of slowing down, England’s grip on the Test grew stronger as the day progressed.