Ravindra Jadeja’s gritty knock of 89 run might have fallen just short of a well-deserved century, but his crucial partnership with captain Shubman Gill has firmly placed India in a commanding position against England in the second Test at Edgbaston.
Jadeja’s Brave Effort Falls Short
Walking in at a tense 211/5, Jadeja displayed his trademark composure and all-round class. His 23rd Test fifty was built on patience, sharp running, and elegant strokes.
Jadeja’s sword celebration after reaching his half-century delighted fans, but his dismissal on 89 by Josh Tongue ended his hopes of a century.
Despite missing out on the personal milestone, Jadeja’s innings was a key pillar in India’s batting recovery.
Gill and Jadeja: A Game-Changing Partnership
Shubman Gill, who is in sensational form, remained unbeaten on 168 at stumps. The duo shared a 203-run sixth-wicket partnership, rescuing India from early trouble and shifting the momentum completely in India’s favour.
This partnership is now among the highest for the sixth wicket at Edgbaston and is India’s highest-ever sixth-wicket stand at this venue.
England’s Bowlers Left Searching for Answers
England’s attack, featuring Chris Woakes, Josh Tongue, and Shoaib Bashir, struggled to find breakthroughs on a flat pitch. Captain Ben Stokes tried various tactics, but the Indian batters stood firm.
Jadeja and Gill’s partnership wore down the bowlers, pushing India’s total past 419/6 by lunch on Day 2, surpassing India’s previous highest score at Edgbaston.
Key Stats:
| Key Moment | Detail |
|---|---|
| Jadeja’s Score | 89 (Missed century by 11 runs) |
| Shubman Gill’s Score | 168* (Captain’s knock) |
| Partnership | 203 runs (6th wicket stand) |
| India’s First Innings Total | 419/6 at lunch on Day 2 |
| Record | Highest India total at Edgbaston |
Why This Matters:
- Jadeja’s Resilience: Even without a century, his knock was vital in stabilizing India’s innings.
- Gill’s Leadership: As captain, Gill’s unbeaten 168 has anchored the innings and put India in complete control.
- Commanding Position: With a massive total on the board, India is poised to dictate the rest of the match.
What’s Next?
India will look to add quick runs and possibly declare soon, giving their bowlers enough time to put England under pressure. The hosts, now trailing by a huge margin, face a tough challenge to stay competitive in the match.
