India vs England, 2nd Test Day 4: England in trouble after Shubman Gill’s historic second century at Edgbaston

Indian bowlers sent England reeling at 72 for three, chasing a mammoth 608 for a win in the second cricket Test at Edgbaston on Saturday. But Day 4 belonged to Shubman Gill, who continued his sensational form, registering his third century in four innings to power India, who declared their second innings at 427 for six.

The Indian captain led the way with 161 of just 162 deliveries and shared two century partnerships: 110 with Rishabh Pant (65) for the fourth wicket and 175 with Ravindra Jadeja (69 not out) for the fifth wicket.  

Coming after a double hundred in the first innings, his muted celebration reflected his focus on pushing India toward a series-levelling win. During the course of his knock, Gill surpassed Sunil Gavaskar’s longstanding Indian record for most runs in a single Test. Gavaskar had scored 344 against the West Indies in 1971 — a mark Gill has now overtaken with an aggregate of 430 in two innings.

After a steady start in the morning, Gill shifted gears post-lunch and brought up his second century of the match just before tea. India added 127 runs in 30 overs during the second session, with Gill leading the charge.

He shared a brisk 110-run partnership with Rishabh Pant, who played a typically fearless innings of 65 off 58 balls. Gill, who had played watchfully in the morning, came out aggressively after lunch. He punished short-pitched deliveries from Tongue with two sixes over fine leg and showed authority against spin, comfortably managing Bashir’s attack.

Earlier, KL Rahul contributed a fluent 55 before being bowled by a sharp delivery from Tongue. Karun Nair, who made 26, faced a hostile spell from Brydon Carse, including a bouncer that struck his helmet. Though he passed a concussion check, he was soon dismissed.

England’s chase got off to a poor start as Mohammed Siraj removed Zak Crawley (0) before Akash Deep sent Ben Duckett (25) and Joe Root (6) packing. Ollie Pope (24 not out) and Harry Brook (15 not out) were in the middle at close of play.

Brief scores

England: 407 and 72/ 3 (Duckett 25, Akash 2-36) vs India: 587 and 427/6 dec (Gill 161, Jadeja 69, Pant 65, Tongue 2-93)