India has declared their second innings at 427-6 on the fourth day of the Edgbaston Test against England, setting a formidable target of 608 runs for the home side to win. The declaration came in the final session on Saturday, leaving England with a daunting task.
Shubman Gill led the charge for India, scoring a century in the second innings, adding to his double century in the first innings. Gill's performance has put India in a commanding position as they aim to level the five-match series 1-1 after losing the opening Test. Gill became the first batsman to score a double century in the first innings and follow it up with a score of 150 or more in the same match. He scored 161 runs off 162 deliveries, including 13 boundaries and 8 sixes.
Ravindra Jadeja also contributed with an unbeaten 69 runs. Rishabh Pant added an aggressive 65 runs, and KL Rahul contributed a solid 55 runs.
England now faces a monumental challenge, requiring them to chase the highest total in Test history to win. The highest successful run chase in Test cricket is 418 runs, achieved by the West Indies against Australia in 2003. England also needs to break the record for the highest chase at Edgbaston, which they set against India in 2022 with 378 runs.
India's declaration has set England their second-highest target ever in a Test match. Their highest target remains 637 runs, set against New Zealand in Wellington in 2009.
England's first innings saw a strong 303-run partnership between Harry Brook and Jamie Smith, which helped them avoid the follow-on. However, they were eventually bowled out for 407, giving India a substantial 180-run lead.
India will aim for a strong bowling performance to secure their first-ever Test victory at Edgbaston.