India turned potential into dominance on the second day of the second Test at Edgbaston, racking up a towering total of 587 runs against England, thanks largely to a record-breaking double century from captain Shubman Gill. His masterful 269 off 387 deliveries marked the highest individual score by an Indian Test captain, surpassing Virat Kohli’s 254* from 2019.
Gill’s innings was a testament to composure, patience, and precise shot selection. Occupying the crease for 509 minutes, the 25-year-old treated fans to a performance that was both mature and magnetic, combining technical discipline with moments of flair. His 30 boundaries and three sixes came not from extravagance but from calculated timing and placement.
Resuming at 333 for four, India capitalized on the overnight foundation as Gill partnered seamlessly with Ravindra Jadeja in a 203-run stand for the sixth wicket. Jadeja, too, was measured in his approach, crafting a solid 89 (137b, 10×4, 1×6) before a sharp delivery from Josh Tongue ended his innings just before lunch.
England’s bowlers, particularly Shoaib Bashir and Brydon Carse, tried varying lines and lengths, but Gill remained unshaken. His strokeplay—ranging from whip shots through mid-wicket to precise square drives—reflected an awareness beyond his years. The double century arrived with a pulled single to fine leg, a moment understated but symbolic of his efficient, minimalist style.
Post lunch, Gill found another steady partner in Washington Sundar. The duo added 144 runs, with Washington contributing a gritty 42 off 103 balls. Their stand not only cushioned India’s dominance but also exhausted the English bowlers, forcing captain Ben Stokes to turn to part-timer Harry Brook, who was promptly punished for five boundaries by a now free-flowing Gill.
The hosts did manage to pull things back marginally. Root’s off-spin dismantled Washington just before tea, and Gill departed after reaching his milestone, but by then the damage was comprehensive.
England’s reply was shaky. Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj struck early, and sharp catching in the slip cordon reduced the hosts to 77 for three by stumps. Joe Root (18*) and Harry Brook (30*) held fort, but with a daunting scoreboard pressure, India sits firmly in command as the Test tilts dramatically in their favor.
