Pivotal Day Looms for England as Stokes' Role Hangs in Balance

Old Trafford, Day 4 Wrap: England's push for series-leveling victory hit unexpected resistance as India closed at 174-2, trailing by 137 runs. Captain Ben Stokes' conspicuous absence from the bowling attack raised alarms, with assistant coach Marcus Trescothick admitting:

"He's stiff and sore after yesterday's marathon 141-run knock. We'll assess overnight but remain hopeful."

Key Developments:

• 🏏 Stokes' 16-wicket series dominance now threatened by recurring hamstring concerns
• ⚡ India's Shubman Gill (76) and KL Rahul (63) stonewalled England's attack through 62.1 overs
• 🩹 Medical staff monitoring Stokes' left hamstring after visible discomfort during fielding
• 📆 Just 72 hours until decisive fifth Test at The Oval

Tactical Analysis:

• England's over-reliance on Stokes' seam bowling exposed (129 overs bowled this series)
• Michael Vaughan's stark warning: "The attack looks toothless without him"
• India's Rishabh Pant cleared to bat despite foot fracture

Historical Context:

• Stokes' 2023 knee surgery and dual hamstring tears
• First Test century in two years during this match
• Career-best 8/77 vs Australia in 2023 Ashes

Weather & Pitch Report

• ☀️ Sunny forecast for Day 5
• 💨 Expected 12mph winds aiding swing bowlers
• 🏟️ Deteriorating Old Trafford surface showing variable bounce

What's Next:

• England requires 8 wickets in 90 overs
• India needs 137 runs to force draw
• Series implications: 2-1 deficit vs potential 2-2 thriller

"This is Test cricket at its brutal best," remarked Nasser Hussain on Sky Sports. "Stokes' heroics vs Gill's defiance - a captain's duel defining the summer."