Introduction:
Day 2 of the second Test between India and England saw India take complete control, thanks to a career-defining innings by captain Shubman Gill. His double century powered India to a massive first-innings total of 587, before the bowlers struck early to leave England reeling by stumps.
Morning Session: Gill Converts to a Double Century
India resumed Day 2 on 336/4, with Gill looking well set. The young captain continued to bat with poise and patience, reaching his maiden double century in Test cricket and eventually scoring 269 off 387 balls – the highest ever by an Indian Test captain in England.
He received excellent support from Ravindra Jadeja, who contributed 89, and later Washington Sundar, who chipped in with 42. The Indian innings finally ended at 587, setting a daunting target for England.
Afternoon Session: England’s Inning Gets Off to a Shaky
StartEngland’s openers walked out under pressure and found it tough against India’s disciplined new-ball attack. Akash Deep, playing just his second Test, removed Ben Duckett early, while Mohammed Siraj sent back Ollie Pope with a beautiful delivery.By Tea, England had slipped to 47/2, with India tightening the screws.
Evening Session: India Tightens the Grip
Things worsened for England as Zak Crawley fell late in the day, leaving them at 77/3 by stumps, still trailing India by 510 runs. With spin likely to play a bigger role from Day 3 onwards, the visitors are in a commanding position.
Key Performers of Day 2:
Shubman Gill – 269 (387 balls): Composed, dominant, historic
Ravindra Jadeja – 89: Solid support act
Akash Deep & Siraj – Early breakthroughs
India’s Lead: 510 runs
What to Expect on Day 3:
With the pitch still good for batting but starting to dry out, India will be eyeing early wickets to pile the pressure on England. For England, it’s now about survival and avoiding the follow-on.
Day 2 was a statement of intent from India. Shubman Gill’s majestic double century and disciplined bowling have put them firmly in the driver’s seat. England faces a massive task to stay afloat in this Test match.