Smith, Brook resist India before Siraj strikes on Edgbaston Day 3.

  • July 4, 2025

The third day of the second Test between England and India at Edgbaston turned out to be a captivating episode, showcasing remarkable swings in advantage and exceptional individual displays. Even though India commenced the day in a commanding position, early dismissals seemed to jeopardize England’s prospects before an astonishing resurgence injected vitality into the contest. Nevertheless, India’s pace merchants retaliated in the concluding spells to ensure the tourists wrapped up the day in a prevalent state yet again.

Jamie Smith, Harry Brook sizzle with extraordinary batting display

England, experiencing considerable strain following a couple of disappointing days, discovered optimism through an amazing riposte steered by Jamie Smith and Harry Brook. Losing ground by a considerable deficit and confronting further capitulation, the pair constructed a noteworthy sixth-wicket stand accumulating 303 runs, pulling their contingent back into the fray — albeit momentarily.

Smith orchestrated England’s recovery, attaining an undefeated 184 in an aggressive manner. His initial century materialized in a mere 80 deliveries, matching one of the swiftest centuries ever achieved by an English batter in Test cricket. Brook, equally composed yet assertive, amassed 158, embodying the flawless partner to Smith as the duo elevated England from 84/5 to a competitive total.

Mohammed Siraj dismantles England’s resistance with 6-wicket burst

Precisely when England appeared to be inching closer to India’s imposing first-innings tally of 587, Mohammed Siraj unleashed a punishing stint that reverted the momentum in the visitors’ favour. Subsequent to claiming a brace of wickets in rapid succession during the morning session by dismissing Joe Root and Ben Stokes, he resurfaced later in the day to sweep aside the tailenders, concluding with splendid figures of 6 for 70 — his finest in Test matches on English soil.

Siraj’s unyielding lines and astute implementation of seam movement proved insurmountable for England’s lower echelon, as the home side succumbed for 407— still trailing India by 180 runs. With England persisting in their fight, it was Akash Deep who delivered the crucial breakthrough that shattered their advancement. He dismissed Brook with a delivery that veered in sharply and destabilized the stumps. Shortly thereafter, he ousted Chris Woakes as England’s aspirations dwindled. Akash’s spell with the second new ball yielded 4 for 88, as England’s innings concluded in a rush — forfeiting their ultimate five wickets for a mere 20 runs.

India strengthen their advantage before stumps

India’s second innings embarked on a steady beginning despite the setback of opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who was adjudged leg-before to Josh Tongue. KL Rahul (28*) guided the team to 64/1 at the session’s conclusion, amplifying the lead to 244 runs with a couple of days remaining in the Test. A day seemingly veering in England’s direction was overturned by India’s pace attack. The Smith-Brook partnership offered a beacon of hope, but Siraj and Akashdeep affirmed that the visitors departed the field in command, a stride closer to securing a vital triumph.

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Also WATCH: ENG vs IND – Jamie Smith punishes Prasidh Krishna with a 23-run over on Day 3 of Edgbaston Test

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