Siraj’s Six-For Secures Huge Lead for India Despite Smith and Brook’s Heroics
Mohammed Siraj claimed a brilliant six-wicket haul as India secured a commanding 244-run lead over England by the end of day three at Edgbaston. Despite a record-breaking 303-run partnership between Jamie Smith (184*) and Harry Brook (158), India remain firmly in control of the second Test.
The day began dramatically with Siraj removing Joe Root and Ben Stokes in consecutive deliveries, leaving England reeling at 84-5. What followed was one of the most thrilling counter-attacks in recent Test history.
Smith’s Sensational Century
Jamie Smith played the innings of his life, racing to a century in just 80 balls – the joint third-fastest by an Englishman in Test cricket. The young wicketkeeper-batsman showed no fear against India’s bowlers, smashing boundaries at will.
His partnership with Harry Brook rescued England from certain disaster. The duo added 165 runs in the morning session alone, leaving the Edgbaston crowd in awe. Smith’s unbeaten 184 surpassed Alec Stewart’s 173 as the highest score by an English wicketkeeper against India.
Brook played the perfect supporting role initially before reaching his ninth Test century early in the afternoon session. His 158 came off 245 balls and included his first hundred against India.
India Strike Back
Just when England seemed to be gaining momentum, India took the second new ball and changed the game completely. Akash Deep broke the partnership by bowling Brook through the gate, triggering a spectacular collapse.
England’s last five wickets tumbled for just 20 runs in 7.2 overs. Siraj was the chief destroyer, finishing with figures of 6-70 – his fourth five-wicket haul in Test cricket and first in England.
The collapse meant India secured a crucial 180-run first-innings lead. By stumps, they had extended their advantage to 244 runs, losing only Yashasvi Jaiswal to Josh Tongue.
With two days remaining, India are well-positioned to level the series. England will need something special to turn this match around, though their love for dramatic run-chases means nothing can be ruled out at Edgbaston.
