Cricket fans across the world are gearing up for another thrilling clash in the ongoing Test series between two of the biggest cricketing nations – India vs England. The much-anticipated 4th Test match of the series is set to take place at the historic Old Trafford Cricket Ground in Manchester from July 25, 2025. With the series finely poised, this match could prove to be the turning point.
In this comprehensive preview, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the IND vs ENG 4th Test, including toss predictions, pitch conditions, weather updates, and key players like Shardul Thakur and Sai Sudharsan to watch out for.
Match Overview: IND vs ENG 4th Test 2025
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Match: India vs England 4th Test
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Date: July 25–29, 2025
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Venue: Old Trafford Cricket Ground, Manchester
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Start Time: 11:00 AM Local / 3:30 PM IST
With the series currently locked at 1-1, both teams will be eager to grab a lead before the final Test. England will be hoping to bounce back after a poor showing in the last match, while India comes into the contest with momentum on their side.
India vs England Toss Prediction
The Ind vs Eng toss could play a crucial role given the pitch and weather conditions in Manchester. Historically, teams winning the toss at Old Trafford have often opted to bat first to take advantage of the early dryness of the surface. However, overcast conditions might tempt the captain to bowl first.
With cloud cover expected on Day 1, we might see the team winning the toss choosing to bowl, hoping to exploit early swing and seam movement.
Old Trafford Cricket Ground Pitch Report
The Old Trafford Cricket Ground pitch report suggests a surface that typically offers a bit of everything – bounce, seam, and some turn later in the match. Here’s what to expect:
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Day 1–2: Good bounce and movement for seamers. Batting gets easier as the day progresses.
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Day 3–4: Ideal for batting, though cracks could begin to appear.
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Day 5: Spinners come into play as the pitch deteriorates.
Pacers like Shardul Thakur could be vital on this pitch, especially in the early stages.
Old Trafford Weather Forecast
The Old Trafford weather is always a talking point during Test matches. Located in Manchester, the venue is notorious for unexpected showers and overcast skies.
Old Trafford Weather and Match Impact
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Day 1: Cloudy, 20% chance of rain
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Day 2–3: Mostly sunny, ideal for batting
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Day 4–5: Cloudy with scattered showers, may disrupt play
This variable weather could make toss decisions even more strategic. Expect the bowlers to have an edge when clouds hover, especially in the morning sessions.
Key Players to Watch: Shardul Thakur and Sai Sudharsan
Shardul Thakur
Known as “Lord Thakur” by fans, Shardul Thakur brings balance to the Indian side. His knack for taking crucial wickets and contributing lower-order runs makes him indispensable, especially in English conditions where swing bowling matters.
Expect Shardul to exploit the conditions at Old Trafford to trouble the English batters.
Sai Sudharsan
The young left-hander Sai Sudharsan has made a quiet but steady impression. If he’s selected for the IND vs ENG 4th Test, this could be his breakout match. His ability to handle seam and pace makes him a solid option for India’s top order, especially if early wickets fall.
Recent Form: Team India and Team England
Team India
India heads into the 4th Test after a dominant win in the 3rd Test. Rohit Sharma’s captaincy, along with contributions from the middle-order and bowlers like Shardul Thakur, have been key. Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja are also in top form.
Team England
England, on the other hand, struggled with consistency in their batting. Joe Root and Ben Stokes need to deliver big in Manchester if they hope to take a lead. With the series on the line, expect a fired-up England at their home ground.
Head-to-Head at Old Trafford: Eng vs Ind
Old Trafford has traditionally favored England, but in recent years, India vs England contests here have been more balanced.
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Matches Played: 9
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England Wins: 4
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India Wins: 2
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Draws: 3
India’s last appearance here ended in a draw, but with the current form, fans expect a different outcome this time.
Series Context: Importance of the Ind vs Eng 4th Test
This 4th Test is more than just another match. It could very well decide the outcome of the series. If India wins, they will go 2-1 up with one match to go, and England would face a must-win in the final Test.
The players know what’s at stake, and we can expect top-tier Test cricket when India vs England lock horns once again.
Final Thoughts: Who Has the Upper Hand?
With the Old Trafford pitch offering something for everyone and the Old Trafford weather adding unpredictability, it’s anyone’s game. However, India’s form, depth, and players like Shardul Thakur and possibly Sai Sudharsan stepping up give them a slight edge.
One thing is certain – cricket fans are in for a treat with this India vs England clash.
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FAQs: India vs England 4th Test
Q1: What is the toss prediction for IND vs ENG 4th Test?
The team winning the toss may bowl first if clouds loom, but batting first is traditionally preferred at Old Trafford.
Q2: Who are the key players in the 4th Test?
For India – Shardul Thakur, Sai Sudharsan (if selected), and Bumrah. For England – Joe Root and Ben Stokes.
Q3: How will the Old Trafford pitch behave?
It will assist seamers early, become good for batting by Day 2–3, and favor spinners on Days 4–5.
Q4: What is the weather forecast for Old Trafford?
Mixed – partly sunny on some days with chances of rain on Days 1 and 5.
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