Sam Curran shows fighting spirit as India put England under pressure at Ageas Bowl

England are under pressure after the opening day of the fourth Test against India at the Ageas Bowl.
Moeen Ali and Sam Curran, left, shared a stand of 81 for the seventh wicket. Picture: Neil MarshallMoeen Ali and Sam Curran, left, shared a stand of 81 for the seventh wicket. Picture: Neil Marshall
Moeen Ali and Sam Curran, left, shared a stand of 81 for the seventh wicket. Picture: Neil Marshall

But a battling 78 from recalled all-rounder Sam Curran ensured the tourists did not have it all their own way as more than 13,000 cricket fans flocked to Hampshire's headquarters yesterday.

England were ultimately bowled out for 246 before India reached 19 without loss at stumps.

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Joe Root won the toss and elected to bat first in the last Test scheduled for the popular venue until 2025 '“ at best.

Hopes of a big first-innings total were shortlived, though, as India delivered a masterclass in swing bowling.

England were reduced to 36 for four and 86 for six as Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma and Mohammed Shami turned on the style.

An encouraging seventh-wicket stand between returning duo Moeen Ali (40) and Curran threatened to turn the tables.

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Curran kicked on impressively to celebrate his second half-century in four Test matches.

But as the early-evening sun bathed the Hampshire stadium, so the Indians finished the job '“ bowling England out.