Author: Akshay Published Date: 06 July 2025
1. India’s Second Innings Surge: Stunning Comeback
The day began with India resuming at 64/1, already leading England by 244. Shubman Gill, riding high after his twin centuries, shifted into full gear. He raced to 150, while Ravindra Jadeja followed with a powerful cameo—showcasing aggressive stroke play post-lunch, including lofted sixes and quick boundaries.
Together with Rishabh Pant and Jadeja, they laid a solid foundation:
- Pant delivered a rapid 65 off 58 balls—blending aggression and control.
- Jadeja’s half-century added depth and pushed the lead past 527 before India reached stumps on 427/6 and declared, setting England the formidable target of 608, a figure rarely seen in Test cricket today.
2. Declaration Sparks Mixed Reactions
But the timing of the declaration (an hour after tea) triggered strong opinions. Fans in the Hollies Stand booed, chanting “boring, boring,” and cricketing veteran Cheteshwar Pujara suggested India might have declared 30 minutes earlier to give more time for bowlers.
Still, with a 180-run lead and wickets in hand, Gill opted for caution—prioritizing wickets over runs on Day 4.
3. England’s Reply: New Ball Bites
England’s reply began well before stumps that evening:
- Akash Deep struck twice early, dismissing Ben Duckett (25) and Joe Root (6), showcasing pace, swing, and accuracy.
- Mohammed Siraj bagged Zak Crawley for a duck with a peach of an outswinger.
By stumps, England were 72/3—still needing 536 runs to win, and India with seven wickets in hand.
4. Weather Plays Spoilsport
Edgbaston’s famous weather made an appearance. AccuWeather forecasts suggested intermittent showers during the day’s first session, with more rain expected later—raising concerns about lost playtime. Despite delays, India made full use before the rain arrived.
5. Tactical Chessboard: Boldness vs Balance
India balanced aggression with responsibility:
- Their late declaration ensured they retained maximum wicket-taking opportunities in a truncated day.
- Fast bowlers attacked with intent, and Deep & Siraj grabbed immediate breakthroughs.
- Captains and spinners (Jadeja, Sundar) were ready for tactical second new-ball spells the next day.
England responded with survival mode, aiming to shield Ben Stokes and fight through before the second new ball arrives.
6. Statistical Insights & Benchmarks
| Key Figure | Detail |
|---|---|
| India innings total | 427/6 declared, chasing a lead of 607 |
| England reply at stumps | 72/3, trailing by 536 |
| Early breakthroughs | Akash Deep (2 wkts), Mohammed Siraj (1 wkt) |
| Pant’s explosive knock | 65 off 58 balls |
| Gill’s 150+, Jadeja’s aggressive fifty | Powered India’s declaration push |
7. Expert Voices & Fan Reaction
- Cheteshwar Pujara criticized the late declaration, feeling India “should’ve declared earlier”
- A Reddit fan was blunt about England’s bowling woes:
“England’s bowling attack is unbelievably toothless… Tongue doesn’t even look like a 3rd seamer… I don’t think I’ve seen a specialist spinner more non‑threatening than Bashir”
8. What Lies Ahead: Day 5 Outlook
With 80 overs scheduled despite the rain, Day 5 promises drama:
- India could wrap up the final seven wickets within the first session. Bowlers like Deep and Siraj will lead the charge; Jadeja and Sundar are ready for spin support.
- England will look to their lower order to survive the opening overs and bat through, with Ben Stokes expected to rebuild.
- A resilient comeback could extend the match, but India’s aggressive tactics indicate full confidence in securing a win and leveling the series.
9. Why This Matters:
- Historical stakes: India seeks its first Test win at Edgbaston in 58 years.
- Series momentum: A win equals the series 1–1—critical heading to Lord’s.
- Test cricket’s narrative: High-stakes decisions like late declarations, rain management, and bold bowling make for tactical richness.
- Emerging talents: Akash Deep’s performance and Pant’s fireworks show India’s bench strength.
10. Final Thoughts: Balance of Power
Day 4 delivered a compelling chapter—India’s declaration divided fans, but the strategy paid off. Their bowlers responded with precision, giving them control. If Day 5 plays out fully, India could level this pivotal series. Regardless, Test cricket fans are guaranteed drama, strategy, and a battle of wits.