India has brought the 5-match Test series against England to level terms at 1-1 after a dominating 336-run victory in the second Test held on Sunday. Despite a brave fight from wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, who scored a determined 88 in the second innings, England were bowled out for 271 runs while chasing a mammoth target of 608.
India’s bowlers, led by fast bowler Akash Deep, dismantled the English batting order. England started the final day at 72/3 but soon lost key wickets early on. Akash Deep was the star of the show, picking up 6 wickets for 99 runs in the second innings and completing a 10-wicket haul in the match — his first-ever in Test cricket. His early breakthroughs, including the dismissals of Ollie Pope and Harry Brook, put India firmly in control. The dismissal of England captain Ben Stokes just before lunch added more pressure on the home side.
Jamie Smith, who remained unbeaten on 184 in the first innings, once again stood tall with a gritty 88. But he lacked enough support from the other end to push the match into a draw.
Earlier in the match, India declared their first innings at 587, thanks to a stunning double century from captain Shubman Gill. England responded with 407 in their first innings, leaving them chasing an enormous total in the fourth innings. This win also marked India’s first-ever Test victory at Edgbaston Cricket Ground in their ninth attempt.
With the series tied at 1-1, all eyes are now on the third Test, which begins Thursday at Lord’s.
