The fifth and final day of the second Test between India and England has begun under overcast conditions, with India eager to square the five-match series. Holding a dominant position after setting England a towering target of 608 runs, India had the hosts at 72/3 by stumps on Day 4. However, persistent rain has disrupted play on the final day, causing a delay of over an hour and potentially derailing India's chances of sealing a win.
India’s commanding position was largely built on a magnificent performance by captain Shubman Gill, who followed up his record 269-run knock in the first innings with another sublime 161 in the second. After scoring 430 runs in the 2nd Test match, Gill now has the second-highest aggregate in a single Test match, just behind only Graham Gooch. He is also one of just two Indians to score a century and a double century in the same Test. He joins the tally with Sunil Gavaskar.
Unpredictable Skies: Final Day's Play Hit
Rain showers returned to Birmingham in the morning, wiping out the first hour of play. Although there was a brief lull in the downpour, conditions remained unfavourable and the ground remained under covers. For England, who were aiming to survive the day, the weather came as a blessing, nudging the match toward a likely draw.
Umpires Monitor Conditions as Rain Pauses
Later in the morning, match officials inspected the pitch as the rain stopped and the sun briefly emerged. Optimism rose among players and fans for a resumption, though the overcast skies still hinted at further interruptions.
Team Strategies for the Final Push
India is committed to using the remaining overs to their full potential. With three sessions and potentially 90 overs left in the day, the visitors need to claim 7 wickets. The team is expected to attack relentlessly in pursuit of a win. Having lost the first Test despite putting up 371 runs, India is keen on turning the tables with this strong showing.
England, on the other hand, has only two realistic scenarios: bat through the day to salvage a draw or suffer a collapse and hand India the win. With weather playing spoilsport and 536 runs still required, a successful chase appears nearly impossible.
How the Test Has Unfolded So Far
The match began with England winning the toss and opting to bowl. India capitalised with a massive total of 587, driven by Shubman Gill’s historic double hundred. Yashasvi Jaiswal (87) and Ravindra Jadeja (89) also made valuable contributions. In response, England were bowled out for 407, thanks to a fiery display from Mohammad Siraj (6 wickets) and Akash Deep (4 wickets), giving India a 180-run first innings lead. With Gill leading the way once more with 161 off 162 deliveries, India increased their pressure in the second innings. Rishabh Pant (65) and Jadeja (69) provided support, and India declared at 427/6, giving England an impossible aim of 608.
