Birmingham, July 2, 2025 — A commanding unbeaten century by Shubman Gill helped India reach a strong position at stumps on Day 1 of the second Test match against England at Edgbaston. After being put in to bat by England captain Ben Stokes, India posted 310/5 in 85 overs, riding on top-order resilience and middle-order grit.
India vs England 2nd Test 2025 |
🔥 Gill’s Captain’s Knock Steals the Show
Shubman Gill, who took over the Test captaincy earlier this year, delivered under pressure with a composed 114 off 216 balls*, marking his eighth Test century. His innings was the backbone of India's batting effort, stitched together with patience, precise strokeplay, and calm leadership.
Gill came to the crease at a tricky stage after the fall of KL Rahul and Karun Nair, but batted with maturity and fluency, especially during his unbeaten partnership with Ravindra Jadeja.
💪 Jaiswal & Jadeja Provide Crucial Support
Yashasvi Jaiswal played a fluent innings of 87 off 122 balls, taking the early charge against England's new-ball bowlers.
Ravindra Jadeja, once again proving his worth as a Test all-rounder, contributed a valuable 41*, providing stability at the close of play.
The duo of Gill and Jadeja added an unbeaten 99-run partnership that frustrated England in the final session.
🏏 England Bowlers Toil Hard, Woakes Stands Out
Despite bowling-friendly overcast conditions early in the day, England’s pacers failed to make major inroads. Chris Woakes was the standout bowler, taking 2 wickets for 59 runs, while Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson took a wicket each.
Woakes expressed frustration post-match over “tight umpiring calls” that didn’t go England's way, particularly two marginal lbw appeals that could have shifted the momentum.
🔄 Key Changes in Team Line-ups
India made three changes to the playing XI:
Jasprit Bumrah was rested due to back stiffness.
Mukesh Kumar, Prasidh Krishna, and KS Bharat were brought in to strengthen the bowling and wicketkeeping departments.
England, meanwhile, remained unchanged from the first Test, showing confidence in their lineup despite losing the opening match at Leeds.
📊 Match Summary – Day 1
| Total: 310/5 (85 overs) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Shubman Gill* | 114 | |
| Yashasvi Jaiswal | 87 | |
| Ravindra Jadeja* | 41 |
Top Bowler (ENG): Chris Woakes – 2/59
🌤 What to Expect on Day 2?
With a strong platform already set, India will look to push past the 400-run mark on Day 2. The pitch is showing signs of being a good batting surface, though early morning conditions may favor seamers.
England will aim to strike early and prevent India from running away with the match. Their success on Day 2 could determine whether they stay alive in the series.
📝 Final Thoughts
The 2nd Test at Edgbaston has started on a high note for India, thanks to a captain’s knock by Shubman Gill and strong support from the top and middle order. England now face the tough task of containing India on Day 2 to stay competitive in the five-match series.
Stay tuned for more updates from the India vs England Test Series 2025 — a battle of resilience, skill, and strategy!