India’s youthful batting line-up delivered a powerful rebuttal to skeptics on Day 1 of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, finishing at 264/4 in challenging English conditions, according to former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar. Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal (58) and KL Rahul (46) set a strong foundation with a 93-run stand, followed by Sai Sudharsan’s maiden Test fifty (61) and Rishabh Pant’s 37 before retiring hurt.

Manjrekar, speaking on Jio Hotstar, praised the team’s resilience against a bolstered England attack, including Ben Stokes, Liam Dawson, and Jofra Archer. “For those who say India’s batsmen only score on flat pitches, today was a statement,” he said, highlighting their adaptability on a seaming track. He lauded Sudharsan’s composure at No. 3, noting, “His organized game and diligent preparation mark him as a Test prospect with a long career ahead.”

The Jaiswal-Rahul opening pair impressed with their defensive solidity, offering India a rare dependable left-right combination overseas. “They’ve shown consistency and mental strength,” Manjrekar added. Meanwhile, former England batter Jonathan Trott predicted the new ball on Day 2 could be pivotal, cautioning that batting last at Old Trafford is tough. With Pant’s condition uncertain, India’s depth will be tested in a tightly contested series.

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