England’s Test batter, Harry Brook, remains highly confident that his team can still win the Edgbaston Test against India, vowing to chase down any target set on the final days.
Brook’s Bold Declaration
Despite India holding a significant 244-run lead with nine wickets in hand at the close of Day 3, Brook firmly believes England can secure a victory. He stated that if England can pick up early wickets on Day 4, they can put India under pressure, hoping for a collapse.
“I still think we can win this Test match, to be honest,” Brook told BBC. He added that the team is ready to “chase whatever they set us,” signaling England’s aggressive intent.
The Crucial Partnership
England was in a tough spot early on Day 3, collapsing to 84 for five after losing key wickets, including Joe Root and Ben Stokes. However, Brook, along with wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith, launched a remarkable counter-attack.
The duo forged a formidable 303-run partnership, pushing England’s total past 400. Brook scored an impressive 158 before his dismissal, while Smith remained unbeaten with 184 runs, significantly narrowing India’s first-innings lead.
Praise for Jamie Smith
Brook was quick to commend his partner, Jamie Smith, for his outstanding performance. He highlighted the importance of their time at the crease together and its impact on the match dynamics.
“It was nice to spend some time out there with Smudge [Jamie Smith]. He has a long England career ahead of him,” Brook remarked. He added that Smith’s innings was “phenomenally well” played and helped shift momentum back in England’s favor.
Eyeing Day 4 Strategy
Looking ahead to the fourth day, England’s focus is clear: take early wickets. They managed to dismiss Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal late on Day 3, providing a glimmer of hope.
Brook expressed optimism about capitalizing on this breakthrough. “Thankfully we’ve seen the back of Jaiswal and hopefully we can make inroads tomorrow,” he said, aiming to pressure India and make them “crumble.”
- Harry Brook is confident England can chase any target to win the Test.
- England’s 303-run partnership between Brook (158) and Smith (184*) was crucial for their comeback.
- England aims to take early wickets on Day 4 to put pressure on India.
With Day 4 approaching, all eyes will be on Edgbaston as England looks to execute its plan and pull off a remarkable victory against the World No. 1 Test team.
