The Indian cricket team experienced an unexpected start to their Manchester leg of the England tour, arriving via train and then making a last-minute U-turn that saw them walk 300 meters in a steady drizzle to reach their team bus. The incident occurred on Saturday, July 19, 2025, as the team reached Piccadilly Railway Station for the upcoming fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, set to begin on July 23.
Train Journey from London and Unexpected Change of Plans
Following their heartbreaking loss at Lord’s, which left them trailing 2-1 in the five-match series, Team India traveled from London to Manchester by train. This mode of transport, rather than a flight, marked a change in their usual travel routine. Upon arrival at Manchester’s Piccadilly Railway Station, the team was met with a consistent drizzle, characteristic of the city’s weather.
However, instead of exiting through the planned route on the platform where their train arrived, the team took a surprising detour. They opted to sneak out from a back door, leading to an unplanned walk for the players.
A Drizzly 300-Meter Trek
The decision to take an alternate exit meant the players had to walk approximately 300 meters, largely exposed to the rain, to board their awaiting team bus. Captain Shubman Gill was seen among the players as they hurried towards the bus to escape the persistent drizzle. The impromptu walk in the Manchester rain was a somewhat unusual start to their preparations for a crucial Test match.
Preparing for the Old Trafford Challenge
Despite the damp welcome, Team India is now settled in Manchester and will begin their intensive preparations for the fourth Test. They have a series of training sessions lined up at the Old Trafford Ground, with a closed-door session initially scheduled, followed by sessions open to media on July 21 and 22.
The weather forecast for Manchester suggests continued light showers, but these are not currently expected to be a major concern for the upcoming Test match. However, English weather can be unpredictable, and the team will be hoping for clear skies as they look to level the series.
Injury Concerns and Team Composition
Adding to the challenges, fast bowler Arshdeep Singh, who is yet to play a game in the series, sustained an injury to his bowling hand during a net session in Beckenham, London, prior to the team’s departure for Manchester. He received stitches and his availability for the fourth Test remains doubtful. The team management will assess his condition in the coming days. Rishabh Pant’s fitness also remains a concern after he suffered a finger injury in the Lord’s Test.
With the series on the line, the Old Trafford Test is a must-win for India to keep their hopes alive for a series victory. The team will be looking to put the Lord’s defeat behind them and focus on a strong comeback in Manchester.
