Day three of the second Test between India and England got underway in Edgbaston with Joe Root and Harry Brook resuming England’s innings, facing a massive 510-run deficit.
England Faces a Steep Challenge
England began Day 3 in a tough spot, trailing India by over 500 runs with only three wickets down. Seasoned batsmen Joe Root and Harry Brook were at the crease, tasked with building a substantial partnership to bring England back into the contest.
The hosts ended Day 2 on 77 for 3, highlighting the early pressure applied by the Indian bowlers. Their ability to negotiate the morning session and cut into India’s formidable lead will be crucial.
India’s Dominant First Innings
India posted a colossal total of 587 runs in their first innings, setting a commanding tone for the match. This mammoth score was largely thanks to a spectacular double century from captain Shubman Gill, who scored 269 runs.
Gill received excellent support from Ravindra Jadeja and Yashasvi Jaiswal, both of whom contributed valuable 80-run innings. Their collective efforts ensured India reached a score that puts immense pressure on England.
For England, young spinner Shoaib Bashir was the pick of the bowlers, managing to claim three wickets amidst India’s batting onslaught. His performance was a silver lining in an otherwise challenging innings for the English side.
Early Breakthroughs for India
India’s bowlers made an immediate impact, putting England on the back foot early in their innings. Debutant Akash Deep made a stunning start, securing two crucial wickets in his very first spell.
Mohammed Siraj also contributed to England’s early struggles, picking up the wicket of Zack Crawley, who has been in a lean patch of form recently. These early dismissals left England’s top order vulnerable and intensified the pressure on the incoming batsmen.
Series Context and First Test
England currently holds a 1-0 lead in the series, having secured a five-wicket victory in the first Test at Headingley. In that match, England successfully chased down a challenging target of 371 runs, buoyed by a superb century from Ben Duckett.
Taking confidence from their previous win, England captain Ben Stokes had opted to bowl first after winning the toss in this second Test. However, India’s powerful batting display has so far negated that decision.
- India posted a formidable 587 runs in their first innings.
- Shubman Gill scored a brilliant 269-run double century.
- England began Day 3 trailing by 510 runs at 77/3.
- Akash Deep took two early wickets for India.
- England leads the series 1-0 after winning the first Test.
The third day promises crucial action as England battles to stay in the contest, while India aims to build on their dominant position and push for a series-levelling victory.
