The partnership between Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett has become a familiar sight for England fans, and a frustrating one for opposing bowlers. Once again, the duo demonstrated their contrasting yet complementary styles at the crease, this time in the fourth Test against India in Manchester. Their 166-run opening stand laid the foundation for England's strong reply after India were bowled out for 358.
Crawley, known for his elegant drives and towering presence, and Duckett, the busy, aggressive left-hander, have forged a potent understanding. In Manchester, their contrasting approaches were once again on full display. Crawley began with his trademark stylish drives, capitalizing on any width offered by the Indian seamers. Duckett, never one to shy away from a challenge, immediately went on the attack, dispatching the bowlers to the boundary with his characteristic aggressive strokeplay.
India's bowlers struggled to contain the pair, with Mohammed Siraj pitching too full and debutant Anshul Kamboj proving ineffective. Even Ravindra Jadeja, usually a reliable source of control, couldn't stem the flow of runs. The scoring rate was rapid, exceeding five runs per over, as Crawley and Duckett piled on the pressure.
Crawley was the first to fall, edging Jadeja to slip for a well-made 84. His innings, lasting 113 balls, included 13 fours and a six. Just when Duckett looked set for his second century of the series, he was dismissed for 94, edging a cut off Kamboj to the wicketkeeper. Duckett's innings included smashing three fours off debutant Anshul Kamboj's first over in Test cricket. Despite missing out on centuries, their partnership had inflicted significant damage, reducing the deficit and placing England in a commanding position.
This latest century stand marks their fifth in 53 Test innings together, highlighting the consistency and effectiveness of their partnership. While both fell short of centuries, their efforts ensured England reached the close of play on 225/2, trailing by just 133 runs. Joe Root and Ollie Pope then saw out the day, ensuring England remained in a strong position. The platform set by Crawley and Duckett has given England the upper hand, and they will be looking to capitalize on it in the days to come.
