Edgbaston, July 3: Shubman Gill lit up Day 2 of the second Test with a masterful 269 the highest-ever score by an Indian captain on English soil steering India to a mammoth 587 in their first innings. His innings, laced with 13th double-century of his Test career, was the cornerstone of India’s dominance.
Partnering with Ravindra Jadeja, who contributed a solid 89, Gill added over 200 runs for the sixth wicket, showcasing control and grit against England’s pace and swing. Earlier contributions from Yashasvi Jaiswal (87) helped build momentum, as India’s top and middle order fired collectively.
England’s reply got off to a dreadful start. Akash Deep struck in quick succession, removing Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope in back-to-back deliveries, while Mohammed Siraj dismissed Zak Crawley. By stumps, England stumbled to 77/3, still trailing by over 510 runs.
Joe Root (18*) and Harry Brook (30*) offered some resistance with a 52-run unbeaten stand, but the hosts face a steep uphill battle heading into Day 3.
India’s commanding total and early breakthroughs have put them firmly in the driver’s seat. England will require nothing short of a miracle to avoid the follow-on and turn the tide.
