Shubman Gill has etched his name into Test cricket folklore with a magnificent performance at Edgbaston, leading India to a dominant position against England in the second Test of the 2025 series. The young captain's remarkable batting display and astute leadership have put India on the cusp of a historic victory, potentially leveling the series.
Gill's masterclass began in the first innings, where he scored a breathtaking 269, surpassing Virat Kohli's previous best to become the highest score by an Indian captain in Tests. His innings was a blend of elegance and power, featuring 30 fours and three sixes, as he showcased his maturity and skill on a challenging Edgbaston pitch. He continued his dominance in the second innings, crafting an unbeaten 161, becoming only the second Indian and ninth overall to score a double century and a century in the same Test match. Gill is also the second captain to achieve this feat in England, following Graham Gooch.
Gill's aggregate of 430 runs in the match is the second-highest in a Test at Edgbaston, only behind Graham Gooch's 456 against India in 1990. This performance also marks the first time a player has scored 250 and 150 in the same Test. Furthermore, at 25 years and 298 days, Gill is the second-youngest Indian skipper to post a double ton. Gill has amassed over 500 runs in the series, demonstrating his evolution into a dynamic leader. In this Test alone, he has been involved in three 100-plus stands.
India's batting performance was further bolstered by valuable contributions from Ravindra Jadeja, who scored 89 in the first innings and an unbeaten 69 in the second. Yashasvi Jaiswal also chipped in with a crucial 87 in the first innings, while Rishabh Pant contributed a quickfire 65 in the second innings.
England, in response to India's imposing total of 587, were bundled out for 407 in their first innings, with Jamie Smith's valiant 184 not out and Harry Brook's 158 being the highlights. Mohammed Siraj was the pick of the Indian bowlers, claiming 6 wickets for 70 runs. In their second innings, India declared at 427/6, setting England a daunting target of 608 to win.
England's chase got off to a disastrous start, with Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj dismantling their top order. At the close of play on Day 4, England were reeling at 72/3, requiring a further 536 runs for victory. Akash Deep took 2 wickets for 36 runs, while Mohammed Siraj took 1 for 29.
India's strong position in the match is a testament to their all-round performance, with both bat and ball. Shubman Gill's leadership has been commendable, and his record-breaking innings have set the stage for a memorable victory. With England facing an uphill task on the final day, India will be aiming to seal the win and level the series.
