The second Test between India and England at Edgbaston is poised for a thrilling finish after a Day 3 filled with dramatic shifts in momentum. India ended the day in a commanding position, but England's Harry Brook believes the game can quickly change.
India started the day strong, with Mohammed Siraj striking twice early to leave England reeling at 84 for 5 in response to India's imposing 587. However, a remarkable counter-attack followed, led by Harry Brook and Jamie Smith, who forged a 303-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Brook, who had missed a century in the first Test, reached his ninth Test hundred with a mix of caution and aggression. Smith, on the other hand, was more aggressive, registering his century off 80 balls. Together, they frustrated the Indian bowlers and brought England back into the game.
Brook eventually fell for 158, dismissed by Akash Deep, and England's lower order then collapsed. Siraj finished with a six-wicket haul as England were bowled out for 407, conceding a 180-run lead. India then extended their lead to 244 by stumps, finishing the day at 64 for 1.
Despite India's dominance, Brook remains optimistic about England's chances. He acknowledged India's lead but pointed to the rapid shifts in momentum seen throughout the series. "Yeah, obviously they're in front at the minute, but like I said before if we get a couple of early wickets in the morning, three or four wickets in the morning you never know how this game can go," Brook said.
Brook drew on England's first Test victory in Leeds, where they triggered an Indian collapse with stunning spells of bowling. "As we've seen last week we got seven for 30 runs and then six for 40 runs at Headingley and then they've done the same to us today," Brook added. "So everything happens so quickly and you never know how the game can go," he noted.
Brook also reflected on his own innings, noting that he felt calmer than he did in the previous match. He explained that he tried to bat properly and that he and Smith both looked to take the bowlers on. He admitted that he was overly aggressive the night before, but that he felt like his best mode of defense was to attack.
The Edgbaston Test has been a rollercoaster ride, with both teams experiencing periods of dominance. India will look to build on their lead on Day 4, while England will aim to strike early and capitalize on any opportunities that come their way. As Brook said, "everything happens so quickly," and the final two days promise to be captivating.