Washington Sundar shone in the India vs England Test series. He scored his maiden Test hundred at Old Trafford. This achievement, along with Ravindra Jadeja’s ton, led to a draw for India. They were down 0‑2 in the second innings (Hindustan Times).
A David vs Goliath Counter‑Attack
India faced a huge 311‑run deficit at the start of the final day. But they showed great resilience. Captain Shubman Gill and KL Rahul started a massive partnership of 188 runs for the third wicket. This changed the game’s direction entirely.
Gill scored 103, his fourth century of the series and first as captain. He joined Don Bradman and Sunil Gavaskar in a rare record. This achievement made him one of the few captains to score four hundreds in a series.
After Gill fell, India still trailed by over 100 runs. That’s when Jadeja and Sundar took over.
Sundar and Jadeja: The Unflappable All‑Round Pair
After lunch, Washington Sundar and Jadeja came together. England pushed hard, but captain Ben Stokes refused to give up. He wanted a draw, showing India’s determination (Hindustan Times, The Times).
Sundar started with a clear goal in mind. His fifty, including a huge six, was achieved 157 balls into the game. This showed his determination to lead India to victory. Jadeja soon joined him, creating a strong partnership (The Times of India, The Indian Express).
The duo battled through nearly 150 overs on the final day. They helped India go from behind to 425/4, gaining a lead and exhausting the English bowlers .
Jadeja scored 107 not out, but Washington Sundar’s 103 not out was the highlight. His first Test century was celebrated with applause as the game ended .
Technical Composure Under Pressure
Sundar’s innings was a surprise for a bowling all-rounder. He showed great technique and patience. He played carefully and rotated the strike well, punishing loose balls when he could.
England’s bowlers, including Stokes and Archer, tried different plans. But Sundar and Jadeja were too strong. They survived attack after attack, showing their resilience .
Broader Implications for the Series
This draw keeps England ahead 2–1 as the series heads to the decider at The Oval. But India showed great determination. Washington Sundar performance could change his role in the team. At 25, he joins Jadeja and others who can play well in both batting and bowling (The Economic Times, Reuters).
England’s failed attempts to pressure the lower order and a missed catching chance that let Jadeja off early were turning points. Concerns over Ben Stokes’ fitness also raise questions ahead of the final Test
Sank into the Series Using Their Depth
India’s bowling unit has faced scrutiny throughout the series. Yet, the team’s depth, shown by Washington Sundar stepping up, offers reassurance. Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar criticized Shubman Gill for delaying Sundar’s bowling on Day 3, calling it “a major red flag” (The Times of India). Sundar’s batting has partly justified that trust.
The Emotional Arc of Sundar’s Hundred
Sundar’s innings carries immense emotional weight. It was his first time crossing fifty in a Test. His calm under pressure shows maturity and a possible coming-of-age moment.
His restraint was evident in many close calls. But in the final phase, it was timely aggression that earned cheers. England, visibly spent, had little left to offer in the final fifty overs.
What Comes Next
The series heads to the fifth Test at The Oval starting Thursday. India now travel with new belief. If Sundar and Jadeja continue to shine, India could level the series. For England, revitalizing their bowling and ensuring Stokes’ fitness will be crucial.
Washington Sundar maiden hundred has rewritten the script. He has announced his potential to anchor innings when needed. With Jadeja complementing him, India now have a strong batting core in the lower order.
Summary Table
| Player | Score (second innings) | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Washington Sundar | 103 (maiden ton)* | Anchored lower-order rescue |
| Ravindra Jadeja | 107 (century)* | Steady partner in fightback |
| Shubman Gill | 103 | Historic fourth century of series |
| KL Rahul | 90 | Crucial third-wicket stand |
India’s ability to withstand near-impossible pressure on Day 5 showcased their batting lineup’s resilience and depth. Washington Sundar’s first century wasn’t just a personal milestone—it was the keystone in a monumental fightback that preserved India’s chance in the series.
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