England’s Ben Duckett launched a daring counterattack on India’s bowlers on Day 4 of the final Test in Dharamsala, bringing the visitors within touching distance of a famous win in the series finale. His brisk half-century lit up the evening session and left England needing just 102 runs on the final day with nine wickets in hand.
England Dominate Final Session at Dharamsala
With the five-match series already tilted in India’s favor at 3-1, the final Test seemed destined to be a consolation match. But England, known for their aggressive “Bazball” approach, flipped the narrative with a fiery batting display late on Day 4.
Ben Duckett stole the spotlight with a 50 off just 39 balls, dismantling India’s bowling attack with fearless strokeplay. His knock featured authoritative cuts, drives, and sweeps that left the hosts scrambling for answers.
- Runs required for England: 102
- Wickets in hand: 9
- Top scorer (so far): Ben Duckett – 50* off 39
- Match venue: HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala
Despite an early breakthrough by Shardul Thakur — who dismissed Duckett and Harry Brook in quick succession earlier in the series — England’s batters showed clear intent to wrap up the chase swiftly on Day 5.
India’s Batting Collapse Proves Costly
India’s second innings failed to offer the resistance expected on a surface that began to favor bowlers. The hosts were bundled out for a modest total, setting a target just above 200 — a score England looked comfortable chasing thanks to their aggressive mindset and pitch familiarity.
Captain Rohit Sharma and the middle order couldn’t convert starts into substantial scores. Ravindra Jadeja tried to anchor the innings, but regular wickets and England’s disciplined bowling left India on the back foot.
- India 2nd innings total: 218
- Leading scorers: Rohit Sharma – 39, Jadeja – 33
- England bowlers impressing: Tom Hartley, Ollie Robinson
Duckett’s Aggression Shifts Momentum
Ben Duckett’s innings wasn’t just about runs — it was about intent. Facing spinners and pacers alike with calculated aggression, he nullified the pressure India tried to build. His fearless approach against Kuldeep Yadav and Thakur marked a shift in England’s Test batting dynamic, particularly on subcontinent pitches.
England’s strategy of playing positive cricket, even under pressure, seems to have unsettled India’s rhythm — a feat not easily accomplished on home soil.
What’s at Stake on Final Day
If England manage to chase down the remaining 102 runs, they will cap off the tour with a morale-boosting victory. While the series is already India’s, a win at Dharamsala would underline England’s ability to bounce back and disrupt India’s dominance at home.
For India, Day 5 offers a final chance to assert authority and end the series with a 4-1 result. Early wickets in the morning could swing the momentum dramatically, especially if England’s middle order falters under pressure.
Recent Head-to-Head Timeline Highlights
| Match | Venue | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Test | Hyderabad | India won |
| 2nd Test | Visakhapatnam | India won |
| 3rd Test | Rajkot | India won |
| 4th Test | Ranchi | England won |
| 5th Test | Dharamsala | Ongoing – England need 102 runs |
Key Players to Watch
- Ben Duckett – Leading the charge with his aggressive fifty
- Zak Crawley – Providing crucial stability at the other end
- Shardul Thakur – India’s main weapon for early breakthroughs
- Tom Hartley – England’s consistent left-arm spin option
- Kuldeep Yadav – Can still impact the final day with turn
Conclusion
The stage is set for a gripping finale in Dharamsala as England eye a stunning win with just over 100 runs needed. Duckett’s fearless batting has turned the pressure back on India, and Day 5 promises a thrilling finish to a fiercely fought series.
Stay tuned for live updates and detailed analysis on the final day’s play at Pakistan’s trusted cricket news hub at Sahaafii.com
