India’s push for a series-levelling win in the second Test against England finally resumed on Sunday after a frustrating rain delay of more than 90 minutes in Birmingham.
Shubman Gill’s men walked out under bright sunshine at 12:40 pm local time, over an hour and a half after the scheduled start, with just 80 overs left in the day due to lost time. But despite the gloomy morning and puddles forming on the outfield, India remained firmly in control.
England, chasing a record-breaking 608 for victory, had reached 72 for 3 by Saturday’s close. With 536 more runs still needed, they faced a mountain even steeper than Headingley’s last week — and this time, rain might be their best ally.
This match already belongs to Shubman Gill. The 25-year-old produced a masterclass in both innings, becoming the first player in Test history to score 250 and 150 in the same match.
He began with a majestic 269 in the first innings — the foundation of India’s massive 587 after Ben Stokes opted to bowl. Then, as if that wasn’t enough, Gill returned with a blistering 161 off just 162 balls in the second, steering India to 427 for 6 before the declaration came.
England’s fightback came in the form of a stunning 301-run partnership between Jamie Smith (184 not out) and Harry Brook (158) in their first innings. But beyond them, little held firm. India’s pace duo, Mohammed Siraj (6-70) and Akash Deep (4-88), shared all ten wickets and ensured the hosts were bowled out for 407.
In England’s second innings, Siraj and Deep struck again before the close of play, removing key top-order batters. Ollie Pope (24*) and Brook (15*) will resume England’s final stand, but survival now looks their only realistic hope.
India are chasing only their fourth ever Test series win in England, having last triumphed here in 2007. With the third Test looming at Lord’s on Thursday, a win at Edgbaston would swing momentum firmly their way.
No side has ever chased more than 418 to win a Test — a record set by the West Indies against Australia back in 2003. England need 536 more.
If the weather stays clear and India’s bowlers stay sharp, history may repeat — but in India’s favour this time.