England's Stokes Five-Wicket Haul, Crawley-Duckett Stand Strengthen Test Lead Over India

On Day 2 of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, England gained a strong foothold against India, largely due to the commanding performances of their opening pair Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett. Crawley, who had been under pressure for his inconsistent form, scored a patient and technically sound 84, while Duckett played aggressively to reach 94, their 166-run partnership shifting momentum in England's favor. England's captain Ben Stokes also starred with the ball, taking a five-wicket haul that dismantled India's middle and lower order, restricting them to 358. Despite India's resistance, notably from Rishabh Pant who scored 54 with a broken foot, England's disciplined bowling and assertive batting left them well-placed at 225 for 2, trailing by just 133 runs. Crawley praised Stokes' leadership and downplayed controversies, emphasizing the team's positive position going into Day 3. The combined efforts of steady batting and impactful bowling highlight England's growing control in the match, setting a promising stage for the upcoming Ashes series.