India walked into the final session of Day 1 of the second Test match of the ongoing series against England at 182/3 at Edgbaston. However, things quickly turned after tea. Rishabh Pant, looking to press the accelerator, fell early attempting a big shot off Shoaib Bashir, only to be caught in the long-on.
Nitish Kumar Reddy, playing just his first Test in England, was castled by beauty from Chris Woakes for just one run.
But just when England sensed an opening, Shubman Gill and Ravindra Jadeja came together and produced a calm, well-paced partnership. With the pressure mounting, the duo hit back hard at England as India again dominated the contest. Gill scored his seventh Test century in the process.
Advertisement
Shubman Gill Stands Tall with 7th Test Hundred
Gill had started the day with caution but blossomed beautifully as the innings progressed. His footwork against the spinners was sharp and he looked assured against pace. As wickets fell around him post-tea, he did not panic. Instead, he started to bat more freely, putting the pressure back on England.
With two back-to-back sweep shots off Joe Root that translated into boundaries, he completed his seventh Test hundred. Captaincy seems to have brought the best out of him as he scored his second ton playing only his second match as India’s Test skipper.
Jadeja, meanwhile, played his part with characteristic calm. He nudged singles, soaked up pressure and picked his moments to attack.
England’s bowlers, despite a good occasional burst, could not dislodge either batter as the partnership grew in stature.
By stumps, India had moved to 310 for 5, with Gill unbeaten on 114 and Jadeja, currently at 41, closing in on a half-century
Advertisement
Momentum with India Ahead of Day 2
India will be the happier side going into Day 2 at 310/5. After losing two quick wickets in the third session, Gill and Jadeja’s unbeaten 99-run stand brought stability and helped India regain control.
England, on the other hand, will hope to strike early tomorrow and get into India’s tail.
The first hour of Day 2 will be key. If this pair stays in, India could push well past 400. But a couple of early wickets could bring England back into the game.
More About ENG vs IND 2nd Test Live Updates:
