Birmingham, England – Day 3 of the second Test between England and India at Edgbaston wrapped up with India firmly in the driver’s seat, holding a significant advantage despite a spirited fightback from England’s middle order. While the day witnessed a remarkable record-breaking partnership for England, India’s disciplined bowling at crucial junctures and a strong start to their second innings have put them in a commanding position.
England’s Valiant Fight and Record Partnership
Resuming their first innings at 77 for 3 in response to India’s imposing 587, England faced an early collapse when Mohammed Siraj ripped through their top order, dismissing Joe Root (22) and Ben Stokes (0) in successive deliveries, leaving England reeling at 84 for 5.
However, the home side was rescued by a phenomenal 303-run sixth-wicket partnership between Harry Brook (158) and Jamie Smith (184 not out). This record-breaking stand not only averted a complete disaster but also provided a glimmer of hope for England to get back into the game. Smith, in particular, was exceptional, smashing his second Test century off just 80 balls, the third fastest by an Englishman. He went on to record the highest score by an England wicketkeeper in Test history, surpassing Alec Stewart. Brook played a crucial supporting role, compiling his ninth Test hundred.
India’s Resurgence with the Second New Ball
Just when England seemed to be building serious momentum, India’s bowlers, spearheaded by Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep, capitalized on the second new ball. This proved to be the turning point of the day. Akash Deep broke the daunting partnership by dismissing Brook, triggering a dramatic collapse. Siraj then ripped through the lower order, securing three more quick wickets, including three ducks in the tail. England lost their last five wickets for a mere 20 runs, eventually being bowled out for 407.
Siraj finished with an impressive 6 wickets for 70 runs, marking his fourth five-wicket haul in Tests and his first on English soil. Akash Deep also contributed significantly with 4 wickets for 88 runs.
India Extends Lead with Rapid Second Innings Start
Carrying a substantial 180-run first-innings lead, India’s openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, began their second innings with aggression. They rattled off a quickfire 51-run opening stand in just 7.4 overs – India’s fastest-ever 50 in a Test in England. Although Yashasvi Jaiswal (28) was eventually trapped lbw by Josh Tongue, KL Rahul (28*) and Karun Nair (7*) safely navigated the remaining overs before stumps.
At the close of Day 3, India stood at 64 for 1, extending their lead to a formidable 244 runs.
Who Has the Upper Hand and Why?
India unequivocally holds the upper hand.
- Significant Lead: India’s current lead of 244 runs, with 9 wickets still in hand, puts them in a dominant position. They can now look to bat England out of the game on Day 4, aiming to set a target well over 400.
- England’s Collapse: Despite the heroic efforts of Brook and Smith, England’s dramatic lower-order collapse underscores the fragility of their batting line-up when faced with quality bowling, especially with the new ball. The six ducks in their innings are a testament to this vulnerability.
- Bowling Momentum: Siraj and Akash Deep’s impactful spells with the second new ball have given India significant bowling momentum heading into Day 4. The pitch, while good for batting, also offered some assistance to the pacers, particularly with the new ball.
- Time in Hand: With two full days remaining, India has ample time to consolidate their lead and dictate terms. They are not under any pressure to declare prematurely.
While England showed immense character through Brook and Smith, the sheer volume of runs already amassed by India and their ability to trigger quick collapses put them in a commanding position to push for a victory on Day 4 or early Day 5. England will need early wickets and another extraordinary batting performance to even dream of a chase.
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