India delivered a commanding performance to defeat England by 336 runs in the second Test at Edgbaston, leveling the series at 1-1. The victory was spearheaded by Akash Deep, whose exceptional bowling dismantled England’s batting lineup on the final day.
England, chasing an improbable target of 608, were bowled out for 271 with 27 overs remaining. Despite a valiant effort from Jamie Smith, who scored 88, the hosts were unable to withstand India’s relentless attack. Deep was the standout performer, finishing with figures of 6-99 and securing his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket.
The day began with heavy rain delaying play, but Deep wasted no time in making an impact. He dismissed Ollie Pope and Harry Brook early, setting the tone for India’s dominance. Ben Stokes, England’s captain, fell just before lunch, further denting their hopes of salvaging a draw.
Smith and Chris Woakes offered some resistance, but their partnership was broken when Woakes top-edged a delivery. Smith’s aggressive approach eventually led to his dismissal, caught at deep-square leg off Deep’s bowling. England’s tailenders, including Josh Tongue and Brydon Carse, provided brief entertainment, but it was not enough to prevent India’s victory.
India’s win was a collective effort, with contributions from key players like Shubman Gill, who scored 430 runs across the match, and Mohammed Siraj, whose stunning one-handed catch to dismiss Tongue highlighted India’s fielding prowess. This victory marks India’s first Test win at Edgbaston and sets up an exciting remainder of the series, which resumes at Lord’s on Thursday.
For England, the defeat serves as a reality check, raising questions about their pace attack’s fitness and strategy. Meanwhile, India’s confidence will be high as they look to build on this momentum in the upcoming matches.
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