The five-match Test series between India and England has now reached an exciting and crucial juncture. Team India suffered a narrow 22-run defeat in the Lord's Test, giving England a 2-1 lead in the series.

With the fourth Test scheduled to be played in Manchester from July 23, India will be desperate to bounce back. However, their historical record at this venue, along with Joe Root’s stellar form, could pose a significant challenge.

Team India’s Record in Manchester

India first played a Test match at Old Trafford, Manchester in 1936. Since then, the team has featured in nine Test matches at this ground till 2014.

Surprisingly, India has failed to win a single match at this venue. Over the past 11 years, India has not played a single Test at Old Trafford.

For many members of the current squad, this will be their first-ever appearance at this ground. It remains to be seen whether this team can rewrite history and end their winless run in Manchester.

The English team has played a total of 84 Tests at Old Trafford and has emerged victorious in 33 of them.

They have lost 15, while 36 matches have ended in a draw. As one of England's key home venues, their strong track record here is not surprising and could serve as a confidence booster heading into the fourth Test.

England’s batting mainstay Joe Root has an exceptional record at Old Trafford. Root has scored 978 runs in just 11 Tests at this venue.

His record includes one double century and seven half-centuries, with his highest score being 254. Given his recent century at Lord’s, Root enters Manchester in top form, which could once again spell trouble for the Indian bowling attack.

With the series on the line, India will be aiming to stage a memorable comeback, but they must overcome history—and Joe Root—to do so.