The fifth Test of the Pataudi Trophy between India and England, scheduled for Old Trafford in September 2021, was abruptly canceled just 90 minutes before its scheduled start due to a COVID-19 outbreak within the Indian camp. The outbreak affected several support staff members, including head coach Ravi Shastri, and raised concerns about the health and safety of the players.
Despite the Indian players testing negative for the virus, anxiety over potential health risks led to the postponement of the match. India was leading the series 2-1 and had a chance to achieve a historic win in England. The decision sparked debates, with some questioning whether health concerns or player reluctance were the primary factors behind the cancellation.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) released a statement expressing regret and disappointment over the news, acknowledging the inconvenience and disappointment it would cause to fans and partners. The BCCI and ECB later negotiated to reschedule the match, which was eventually played in July 2022.
India’s tour of England in 2021 had originally included five Test matches. After a drawn opening Test at Trent Bridge, India won the second Test at Lord’s by 151 runs. England responded strongly in the third Test at Headingley, defeating India by an innings and 76 runs, leveling the series at 1-1 after three matches.
India fought back in the fourth Test, thanks to a brilliant 127 from Rohit Sharma, winning it by 157 runs. However, the rescheduling of the fifth and final Test in Manchester due to the COVID outbreak denied India the chance to secure their first Test series win on English soil since 2007.
When India returned to England in 2022 for the rescheduled Test, they aimed to create history but ultimately lost the match by seven wickets, resulting in a 2-2 series draw. Apart from Rahul Dravid in 2007, only Ajit Wadekar (1971) and Kapil Dev (1986) have led India to Test series triumphs on English soil.
