India stands on the brink of a resounding victory against England in the second Test, needing just seven more wickets on the final day at Edgbaston to clinch the series lead.
England’s Mountain to Climb
England faces a monumental task, chasing a massive target of 536 runs to win the Test. They ended Day 4 reeling at 72 for three, still needing an improbable 464 runs with only seven wickets remaining in their arsenal.
The home side’s top order crumbled under pressure, setting up a thrilling final day where India will push for an early finish. The target is one of the highest ever set in Test cricket, making a successful chase highly unlikely.
India’s Commanding Lead
India’s formidable batting performance in their second innings set up this dominant position. Skipper Shubman Gill led from the front, smashing his second century of the match and third of the series, a pivotal knock that propelled India past the 400-run mark.
Significant half-centuries from Ravindra Jadeja, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant further bolstered the total. This allowed India to declare at 427, setting England an imposing target of 608 runs for victory and showcasing their batting depth.
Bowlers On The Hunt
The Indian pace battery made immediate inroads into England’s chase on Saturday. Young pacer Akash Deep was particularly impressive, dismantling England’s top order with three crucial wickets, including the prized scalps of key batsmen.
His menacing spell on Day 4 has set the stage perfectly for Mohammed Siraj and the rest of the bowling attack to complete the job on Sunday. The bowlers will be looking to exploit any early morning swing and seam to secure quick breakthroughs.
Weather Watch in Birmingham
While India is in a strong position, the weather could still play a factor. There’s a looming threat of rain over Edgbaston on the final day, which might interrupt play.
Both teams will be keeping a close eye on the skies, hoping for clear conditions to allow for a decisive finish. Any significant rain could potentially save England from a defeat, adding an unpredictable element to the final day.
- India needs 7 wickets to win the 2nd Test.
- England requires 464 more runs with 7 wickets remaining.
- Shubman Gill scored a brilliant second-innings century for India.
- Akash Deep picked up three key wickets on Day 4.
- Rain threat looms over the final day’s play.
As the final day dawns, the stage is set for an exhilarating conclusion at Edgbaston. India will be pushing hard for an early finish, aiming to take a crucial lead in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series.
