India vs England 2nd Test Day 4, Thrilling Updates: England Face Daunting 608-Run Chase at Edgbaston, India Look to Level 1-0 Series Deficit
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| Photo credit _Times of India |
India vs England 2nd Test Day 4: England Face Uphill Battle Chasing 608 Runs at Edgbaston
In a thrilling Day 4 of the second Test at Edgbaston, Birmingham, England found themselves in a precarious position at 72/3 at stumps, needing a daunting 536 runs to secure victory against a dominant Indian side. With Ollie Pope and Harry Brook remaining unbeaten, the hosts have their work cut out in what promises to be an exhilarating final day of this crucial match in the five-Test series. India, trailing 1-0 after a five-wicket loss in the first Test at Headingley, Leeds, showcased their batting prowess and bowling discipline to firmly assert control at Edgbaston on Saturday, July 5, 2025.
India’s Batting Masterclass Sets the Tone
India’s second innings was a spectacle of resilience and flair, led by their young captain, Shubman Gill, who anchored the innings with a magnificent century. Gill’s second hundred of the match was a testament to his growing stature as a leader and batsman, steering India out of a potentially tricky situation. His composed and elegant stroke play was complemented by vital contributions from Ravindra Jadeja, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant, all of whom chipped in with well-constructed half-centuries.
Jadeja’s gritty knock added stability, while Rahul’s classy batting kept the scoreboard ticking. Pant, known for his aggressive approach, played a counter-attacking innings that put England’s bowlers on the back foot. Their collective efforts propelled India to a formidable 427 before declaring, setting England an imposing target of 608 runs. The declaration was a bold move by Gill, signaling India’s intent to push for a series-leveling victory on the final day.
Akash Deep Shines with the Ball
India’s bowling attack, led by the fiery Akash Deep, made early inroads into England’s batting lineup. Deep was the standout performer, claiming two crucial wickets to rattle the hosts’ top order. His pace and movement troubled England’s batsmen, putting them under immediate pressure. Mohammed Siraj supported Deep with a solitary wicket, maintaining a tight line and length that kept England’s scoring in check. By stumps, England were reeling at 72/3, with Pope and Brook tasked with a near-impossible chase on Day 5.
England’s Daunting Challenge
England’s hopes now rest on the shoulders of Ollie Pope and Harry Brook, who showed resilience in seeing off India’s bowlers under fading light on Day 4. However, with 536 runs still needed and only seven wickets in hand, England face a monumental task. The pitch at Edgbaston, while offering some assistance to bowlers, remains good for batting, but India’s disciplined attack, led by Deep and Siraj, will look to exploit any early morning movement on the final day. England will need a miracle, coupled with extraordinary batting heroics, to chase down the target or even force a draw.
India’s Quest to Level the Series
India’s commanding performance on Day 4 has put them in the driver’s seat as they aim to level the series at 1-1. After their defeat in the first Test at Leeds, where England chased down a modest target to secure a five-wicket victory, India have bounced back with intent. Gill’s leadership, both with the bat and in strategic decisions like the timely declaration, has galvanized the team. The contributions from Jadeja, Rahul, and Confidentiality
Pant have further bolstered India’s confidence, while their bowlers have shown the ability to strike at critical moments.
What Lies Ahead
As the second Test heads into its final day, all eyes will be on Edgbaston for what promises to be a gripping conclusion. England’s batsmen will need to dig deep, with Pope and Brook likely to adopt an aggressive approach to keep their slim hopes alive. For India, the focus will be on maintaining their bowling discipline and applying relentless pressure to wrap up the innings. The third Test at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London looms large, and a win here could give India the momentum they need to turn the series in their favor.
This Test match has already delivered moments of brilliance, from Gill’s masterful century to Deep’s fiery spell. As the series progresses, both teams are showcasing why Test cricket remains the ultimate format, blending strategy, skill, and drama. For now, India hold the upper hand, but with cricket’s unpredictable nature, Day 5 at Edgbaston could still have surprises in store.
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