The England vs India 2nd Test at Edgbaston has reached a thrilling climax. After four days of intense cricket, India are in a commanding position, needing just seven wickets on the final day to level the series. England, chasing a record 608, are hanging on by a thread. Rain may play spoilsport, but if the weather holds, Day 5 promises a dramatic finish.
Table of Contents
Day 4 Recap: India Tightens Their Grip
Morning Session: India Extends Their Lead
India started Day 4 with a solid lead of 244 runs. KL Rahul and Karun Nair resumed cautiously, but England struck early, removing Nair. Shubman Gill, fresh from his first-innings double century, walked in with confidence. Alongside Rahul, he built a steady partnership, pushing India’s lead beyond 600.
Afternoon Dominance: Gill’s Blazing Century
The afternoon belonged to Shubman Gill. He smashed a breathtaking 161 off just 162 balls, dismantling England’s bowling attack. Rishabh Pant joined the party with a quickfire 65, while Ravindra Jadeja added an unbeaten 69. India declared at 427/6, setting England a mammoth target of 608.
Evening Strikes: England in Trouble
With 18 overs left in the day, India’s pacers went for the kill. Mohammed Siraj removed Zak Crawley early, and Akash Deep struck twice, dismissing Ben Duckett and Joe Root. At stumps, England were 72/3, still needing 536 runs. Ollie Pope and Harry Brook held the fort, but the odds were heavily against them.
The Big Questions: Can England Survive England vs India 2nd Test Day 5?
Three Possible Scenarios
- India’s Victory (Most Likely)
- India needs seven wickets, and the pitch is showing signs of wear and tear. Siraj and Akash Deep will attack with the new ball, while Jadeja and Sundar will exploit the rough patches. If England loses early wickets, the match could end quickly.
- England’s Miraculous Chase (Unlikely, But Not Impossible)
- England needs 536 more runs. If Pope and Brook bat through the morning session, hope could grow. However, no team has ever chased 600 in Test cricket.
- Rain Plays Spoilsport (England’s Best Hope)
- Showers are forecast for the morning. If rain wipes out a big chunk of play, England might escape with a draw. But forecasts suggest most of the day will be dry.
Key Players to Watch
- Shubman Gill (India) – The captain has led from the front. His aggressive batting has already given rise to dividend and tactical decisions, which will be crucial to team success.
- Akash Deep (India) – The young pacer has been a revelation. His swing and pace could dismantle England’s middle order.
- Ollie Pope & Harry Brook (England) – If these two bat long, England might dream of a miracle.
- Ben Stokes (England) – The skipper’s fighting spirit could inspire a late fightback.
Tactical Battles: What Will Decide the Match?
India’s Bowling Attack vs England’s Bazball Approach
England’s aggressive style has worked before, but 608 is a different challenge. If they go for big shots early, India’s bowlers will feast on mistakes.
The Weather Factor
Rain could save England, but India will push hard for early wickets to deny them that chance.
Mental Pressure
Chasing 600 is as much about skill as it is about nerve. One mistake, and the floodgates could open.
Final Verdict: India’s Game to Lose
England vs India 2nd Test, barring a miracle or heavy rain, India should wrap this up. Their bowlers are fired up, and England’s batting looks shaky. If the weather holds, expect an Indian victory by afternoon.
For more, Follow Sports Dribble on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
My name is Krishanu Das the founder of the Sports Dribble.
I am Accountant by profession but a Sports Blogger by passion.
I am passionate about sharing my all knowledge and experiences of sports, with my readers and every sports enthusiast.
Discover more from SPORTS DRIBBLE
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
