4th Test: England skipper Ben Stokes bowls during practice ahead of day five play

Manchester, July 27 In some encouraging news for England ahead of day five’s play in the ongoing fourth Test against India, skipper Ben Stokes was spotted bowling during his side’s warm-up sessions.

Broadcast visuals showed Stokes running and bowling on the practice pitches while the rest of the England team were going about their drills at Old Trafford. Stokes didn't bowl in any of the 63 overs bowled by England on day four after suffering from cramps in his left leg during his knock of 141 and even retired hurt at one point on day three’s play.

But Stokes practicing his bowling means he could be called upon with the ball on day five, when India resumes their second innings from 174/2, trailing England by 137 runs.

Stokes, the leading wicket-taker in the series, picked an impressive 5-72 when India posted a first innings score of 358.

"It might be a little test. Stokes certainly wasn't moving as well as that yesterday. It certainly looked like he had more than cramps yesterday, but he did some sprints (this morning), bowled a few overs - albeit only off a light run-up.

"I think he'll be hoping not to have to bowl today, give the body a bit more rest, but needs must and England want to win this Test match desperately. For all of us, just seeing him move slightly better this morning, whether he bowls or not, is a good sign," said former England fast bowler Stuart Broad on Sky Sports’ broadcast.

England, who have a 2-1 lead in the ongoing five-match series, remain favourites to take an unassailable lead on Sunday’s final day at Old Trafford. Minus Stokes bowling on day four, England looked rather indecisive with the ball, as KL Rahul and Shubman Gill hit unbeaten knocks of 87 and 78, respectively.

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