England Rally and India Answer Back — A Thrilling Day 3 at Edgbaston

Introduction:
Day 3 was packed with ebbs and flows as England spectacularly recovered from 84/5 to avoid the follow-on, only for India to respond with incisive bowling late in the day. The result is a finely poised Test heading into Day 4.

🎯 Morning: England’s Dramatic Counter-Attack
England began on a perilous 84/5, with early wickets to Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj. But then Jamie Smith (184)* and Harry Brook (158) orchestrated a breathtaking 303-run sixth-wicket stand, rescuing their side and reaching 355/5 at tea. Smith’s century was explosive— the fastest by an England keeper—and Brook continued his surge with a commanding hundred .

🌅 Afternoon into Evening: England All Out, India Strike BackPost-tea, England lost momentum. They closed the day at 407 all out, trailing India’s 587 by 180 runs .
Mohammed Siraj was the standout bowler, claiming a superb 6‑70
Akash Deep supported well, ending with 4‑88 
India then began their second innings briskly, reaching 64/1 by stumps, leading by 244 runs 
🏏 Key Performers & Stats – Day 3
Jamie Smith: 184* — England’s highest-ever wicketkeeper score 
Harry Brook: 158 — Clinched his ninth Test century .
Mohammed Siraj: 6/70 — Took control with a brilliant spell .
Akash Deep: 4/88 — A fine performance from a young pacer .

England trail by 180 after the first innings but India lead by 244 now.

🔮 What to Expect on Day 4
India will aim to bat until the pitch deteriorates, building a huge lead before declaring. England must look for early wickets and prevent India from establishing dominance. With spin expected to play a key role, the toss and early sessions will be vital.

Conclusion:

Day 3 was a captivating Test: England’s resistance was epitomized by Smith and Brook’s partnership, but India’s bowlers responded strongly. With the match finely balanced, Day 4 promises intense contest and high drama.