The stage was set at Old Trafford, and with England holding a narrow lead in the five-match Test series—two wins to India’s one—anticipation in Manchester was sky high.
Fans poured in, the skies were grey, and the cricket? As gripping as ever.
India, after losing the last Test, needed a strong start. And that’s exactly what they got, thanks to openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who looked calm and composed at the crease.
Despite England choosing to field first—a decision Ben Stokes clearly didn’t lose sleep over—India began confidently.
England Strike Back After India’s Confident Opening
It took a bit of effort, but England finally broke through.
Chris Woakes drew first blood, getting the breakthrough after the Indian openers laid down a solid foundation.
Liam Dawson, making his long-awaited return after nearly 3,000 days out of the Test squad, grabbed a wicket to mark his comeback in style.
Stokes also chipped in with two scalps before India’s dynamic batter Rishabh Pant suffered an injury and was rushed to the hospital—adding another twist to an already finely-balanced day of cricket.
By the time India reached 264 for four at stumps, the match was delicately poised.
Jadeja stood firm at the crease, eyeing his fifth consecutive Test half-century, and England were hoping to make quick work of the tail on Day Two.
Thirsty in Manchester? Here’s Where to Head
As someone who knows Manchester like the back of my hand, I’ve got a few pro tips for anyone heading to Old Trafford.
Hop on the tram outside the ground and you’re in the heart of the city in no time.
Just don’t forget to tap in and out—trust me, they’re sticklers about that.
If you’re parched after a long day of play, check out The City Arms, the Circus Tavern, or The Temple (yes, the one that used to be a public toilet—it’s quirky and brilliant).
Barred From My Own Lounge!
Here’s a funny one. I’m hosting a special lounge at the stadium for this match, affectionately named ‘Bumble’s Legends Lounge’—which, rather embarrassingly, features massive pictures of yours truly.
But get this: I wasn’t allowed in! On Wednesday, I had to call for help because the security guy on the door wouldn’t let me through.
There I was, locked out of a room full of pictures of myself. You couldn’t make it up!
Too Few Gates, Too Many Fans
If you turned up for Day One and found yourself stuck in a massive queue, you weren’t alone.
The stadium was only half full at the start of play—not because people didn’t show up, but because thousands were still outside waiting to get through bag checks.
Lancashire County Cricket Club has since said they’ll open more gates for Thursday, which is great—but why wasn’t that the plan from the start? It’s a sell-out crowd.
Everyone deserves to be in their seat for the first ball. My tip: arrive early, and be patient.
Honouring Two Lancashire Icons
Finally—after all these years—a stand at Old Trafford has been named after two absolute legends: Sir Clive Lloyd and Farokh Engineer.
I had the honour of captaining both men during their time at Lancashire.
Clive was one of the most powerful batters I’ve ever seen, and Farokh? A true character.
Both of them would’ve been superstars in the IPL era. It was fantastic catching up with them and seeing them celebrated the way they deserve.
India’s Openers Pass Toughest Test
You’ve got to give credit to India’s top order. Under cloudy skies and with a brand-new ball swinging, KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal showed incredible discipline.
They defended when needed, didn’t flirt outside off stump, and capitalised on scoring opportunities. It was textbook opening play.
They gave India the kind of start they desperately needed, and they did it with real class.
Dawson Makes a Statement in His Return
Liam Dawson hasn’t played a Test in eight years, but you wouldn’t have known it from his performance.
He came in looking sharp, composed, and confident.
He brings balance to the side, much like Ashley Giles did back in the 2005 Ashes.
His dismissal of Jaiswal, getting the ball to drift and turn to beat the edge, was a beauty.
He may just be the steady presence England needs right now.
Parting With Treasured Cricket History
On a personal note, I’ve finally decided to part with something close to my heart—my old cricket book collection.
Over the years, I’ve built a little library of works by Neville Cardus, Frank Woolley, Godfrey Evans, A.C. MacLaren, and even Don Bradman.
They’re going to a great new home: Mail Sport’s own Lawrence Booth, who’s also the editor of Wisden.
It’s hard to let them go, but I know he’ll look after them.