Anderson drags England back into contest in Nottingham

England's James Anderson celebrates taking the wicket of India's Virat Kohli at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, Britain on 5 August, 2021Reuters

James Anderson struck twice in two balls, including the prize wicket of India captain Virat Kohli, to lead England's fightback before bad light forced early tea on day two of the opening test on Friday.

The tourists, cruising at 97 for no loss in the morning, slumped to 125-4 when play was halted and rain followed.

KL Rahul was batting on 57, while Rishabh Pant was on seven in the first match of the five-test series which marks the beginning of a new World Test Championship cycle.

Resuming on 21 for no loss in reply to England's first innings total of 183, India had a near-perfect morning session.

The partnership between their openers was inching towards the century mark when Ollie Robinson bounced out Rohit Sharma for 36 with the final delivery before lunch.

Anderson returned after the break to wreck India's top order, dismissing Cheteshwar Pujara and Kohli in successive deliveries with Jos Buttler taking both the catches.

Pujara made four and Kohli fell for a golden duck.

Ajinkya Rahane denied Anderson a hat-trick but did not last long and ran himself out after making five.

England have opted for a seam-only attack, while India have all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja as their lone spin option.