England’s Fightback Meets Indian Firepower as Test Hangs in Balance
The Day 3 of the India vs England 2nd Test at Edgbaston produced an extraordinary mix of record-breaking partnerships, fiery pace bowling, and intense momentum swings. From England’s incredible comeback to India’s lethal counterattack, the day had it all.
England’s Heroic Revival: Jamie Smith & Harry Brook’s Marathon Stand
From a precarious 84/5, England mounted a stunning recovery thanks to a 303-run partnership between Jamie Smith and Harry Brook.
- Jamie Smith, in just his second Test, lit up the day with a blistering 184 off 207 balls*, notching the fastest Test century at Edgbaston and the quickest by an Englishman against India.
- Harry Brook played the perfect foil, anchoring the innings with a gritty 158, rebuilding after early collapses.
Their stand not only rescued England but kept them alive in a match that seemed to be slipping away rapidly.
Jamie Smith smashing boundaries…
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 4, 2025
Fancy another one? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/J5SM5Dd7Y4
Siraj Strikes Back: Six-Wicket Haul Turns Tide Again
Just as England looked set to take the lead, Mohammed Siraj turned the game on its head with a spell of reverse swing and precision:
- Siraj finished with 6 for 70, his best figures outside Asia.
- He triggered a spectacular collapse where six English batsmen fell for ducks, the most ever in a single Test innings for England.
Akash Deep provided excellent support, returning with 4/88, as England were dismissed for 407, giving India a valuable first-innings lead of 180 runs.
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India Consolidate Lead: Calm Start to Second Innings
India began their second innings confidently, reaching 64/1 at stumps, and extending their lead to 244 runs heading into Day 4.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul put on a solid opening partnership.
- Despite Jaiswal’s LBW dismissal (surrounded by a minor DRS time-limit controversy), India remained in control.
Captain Shubman Gill now has the strategic challenge of deciding how big a target is enough—or whether to enforce a declaration on Day 4.
Tactical Shifts and Momentum Battles
This Test has seen frequent momentum shifts, and Day 3 was a perfect example of how both teams are punching back hard:
- England’s Bazball Counterattack: Smith and Brook showed that Bazball isn’t just entertainment—it can rescue matches under pressure.
- India’s Bowling Depth: Without Bumrah leading the line, Siraj and Deep showcased India’s rich pace reserves.
- Captaincy Pressure: Shubman Gill‘s decision on Day 4 could define the match—does he attack for a win or play it safe?
India vs England 2nd Test, Day 3 Highlights
| Team | Score | Lead |
|---|---|---|
| India (1st) | 587 all out | – |
| England (1st) | 407 all out (Smith 184*, Brook 158) | Trailed by 180 |
| India (2nd) | 64/1 (lead by 244 runs) | 244-run lead |
What to Expect on Day 4
With a healthy lead and a long batting lineup, India are in a commanding position. However, with the pitch starting to offer some assistance to the bowlers, and England eager to make a breakthrough, Day 4 promises more fireworks.
Expect India to bat till lunch and set a challenging target—or even consider an aggressive early declaration to give their bowlers time.
Final Word
Day 3 of the India vs England 2nd Test was a thrilling display of character, strategy, and high-class cricket. From Jamie Smith’s breakout ton to Siraj’s clinical six-for, fans were treated to top-tier Test match drama.
The Test is finely poised, with all three results still on the table. Get ready for a blockbuster Day 4 at Edgbaston.