India Draws Fourth Test, Keeping Series Alive Amidst Pitch Controversy

India secured a draw in the fourth Test against England, keeping the series alive. Despite the match being played on a pitch that favored batsmen, there were still moments of tension and drama.

India, led by captain Shubman Gill's century, displayed resilience to earn a hard-fought draw in a high-scoring Test. Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar also reached impressive scores on the final day, much to the apparent frustration of the English team.

England's captain, Ben Stokes, expressed his disappointment with India's decision to continue batting despite having no chance of winning. Fielders were reportedly heard using strong language towards the Indian batsmen as Sundar approached his maiden Test century.

After losing early wickets in their second innings, India batted for an extended period, losing only two more wickets to finish the day at 4-425. England's substantial first-innings score had given them a significant lead, but Gill's impressive century and a solid innings by KL Rahul ensured the series-saving draw.

Gill and Rahul, the leading run-scorers in the series, fell early on the final day. However, Jadeja and Sundar then formed an unbroken partnership, guiding India to safety with England's part-time bowlers in action.

India's coach, Gautam Gambhir, defended the team's decision to continue batting, suggesting that the batsmen deserved the opportunity to reach their milestones. Player of the match Stokes acknowledged the impact of Jadeja and Sundar's partnership, regardless of whether they reached their centuries.

Former England cricketer Steve Harmison believed that no boundaries were crossed and that both batsmen deserved their chance to achieve their milestones. The match eventually concluded with handshakes after Sundar completed his first Test century.

Former England captain Alastair Cook noted that the pitch had favored batsmen, making batting look easy on the final day. He expressed a preference for pitches that offer more challenge and variation. Michael Vaughan agreed, stating that the pitch offered little assistance to the bowlers.

The series remains closely contested, with England leading 2-1. The final Test at the Oval in London will determine the series winner.