India ended Day 1 of the second Test against England on a commanding note, reaching 310/5 at stumps, thanks to standout performances from Shubman Gill (114*) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (87).
Gill led the charge with a composed century, anchoring the middle order after India lost a couple of quick wickets. Earlier, Jaiswal provided a strong start at the top with a fluent 87, narrowly missing out on a second consecutive Test century. The duo’s efforts laid a solid foundation for India, who will now look to build on this momentum going into Day 2 at Edgbaston.
Jaiswal’s counter-attack
India lost KL Rahul early for just 2 runs, but Jaiswal counter-attacked with flair. The left-hander continued his fine form from Leeds and looked set for another century before falling for 87 off 107 balls, caught by Jamie Smith off Ben Stokes. His innings was laced with 13 crisp boundaries and helped India recover from the early setback.
Gill, who walked in at No. 4, anchored the innings with maturity. He registered a composed century, guiding the middle order after quick wickets of Rishabh Pant and debutant Nitish Reddy, who fell in quick succession during the final session.
At stumps, Gill remained unbeaten on 114, holding the innings together alongside Ravindra Jadeja, who also looked solid.
England’s bowlers had their moments—Chris Woakes, Josh Tongue, and Ben Stokes picked up key wickets—but couldn’t maintain consistent pressure throughout the day.
India will look to build on this solid platform when they resume Day 2, with hopes of posting a big first-innings total. For England, early breakthroughs will be crucial to pull the game back into balance.
1st hour crucial for India
Heading into Day 2 (July 3), England will look to make early inroads with the second new ball, hoping to shift momentum in their favour.
For India, the first hour will be crucial, and much will depend on how Shubman Gill and Ravindra Jadeja navigate that initial phase. If either can convert their start into a big innings, India will have a strong chance of pushing towards the 450-run mark.
With ideal weather conditions forecasted, it promises to be another thrilling day of Test cricket at Edgbaston.
