India, July 24 -- After a brief absence from the playing XI, Sai Sudharsan marked his return to India's Test side with a composed half-century in Manchester. Coming in at No. 3 in the fourth Test against England, the left-hander stood tall and went on to score a fluent 61 on Day 1. His knock was crucial in stabilising India's innings after the openers laid a steady foundation, and it showcased the temperament and technique that had earned him a red-ball debut earlier in the series.

For someone playing just his second Test, Sudharsan's grit was remarkable, especially given the intense scrutiny he faced after a four-ball duck on debut in Leeds last month.

However, what added to the intrigue from the fans beyond the field was a moment from...