### England's Resilience Shines as Brook and Smith Lead a Fightback Against India at Edgbaston In a thrilling second Test match at Edgbaston, England's Harry Brook and Jamie Smith showcased remarkable batting prowess, significantly narrowing India's lead. Brook scored 158 runs, while Smith remained unbeaten at 184, contributing to a substantial recovery for England after a shaky start. Despite their efforts, India maintained a commanding position, leading by 357 runs at lunch on day four of the Test match. The match has been characterized by dramatic shifts in momentum, with India initially dominating before England's resurgence through the partnership of Brook and Smith, who added 303 runs for the sixth wicket, marking a pivotal moment in the game [https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/harry-brook-back-england-beat-india-edgbaston-ind-vs-eng-10107350, https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/rahul-pant-shine-india-extend-lead-over-england-357-5222116, https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2025/07/05/cricket---india-on-top-despite-smith-and-brook039s-hundred-heroics-in-2nd-test-in-england]. ### Breakdown of the Match Dynamics 1. **Initial Dominance by India**: - India set a formidable first-innings total of 587 runs, putting England under pressure early in the match. - Mohammed Siraj's exceptional bowling performance helped dismiss England for 407 in their first innings, giving India a significant lead [https://www.outlookindia.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-england-2nd-test-2025-day-3-harry-brook-jamie-smith-data-debrief]. 2. **England's Resurgence**: - Brook and Smith's partnership was crucial, as they turned the tide for England after a disastrous start that saw them at 84-5. - Their combined efforts not only salvaged the innings but also set a new record for the highest sixth-wicket partnership for England against India [https://www.business-standard.com/cricket/news/eng-vs-ind-2nd-test-harry-brook-slams-9th-test-ton-first-against-india-125070400979_1.html]. 3. **Current Match Status**: - As of day four, India leads by 357 runs, with England's batting lineup showing signs of recovery but still facing a daunting task to chase down India's total [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/rahul-pant-shine-india-extend-lead-over-england-357-5222116]. ### Key Statistics and Performance Metrics - **Batting Highlights**: - Harry Brook: 158 runs off 200 balls, marking his ninth Test century. - Jamie Smith: 184 not out, the highest score by an England wicketkeeper in Test history [https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2025/07/05/cricket---india-on-top-despite-smith-and-brook039s-hundred-heroics-in-2nd-test-in-england]. - **Bowling Performance**: - Mohammed Siraj: 6 wickets for 70 runs in the first innings, showcasing his ability to dismantle the English batting order [https://www.outlookindia.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-england-2nd-test-2025-day-3-harry-brook-jamie-smith-data-debrief]. ### Conclusion: A Match of High Stakes and Unpredictable Turns The second Test between India and England at Edgbaston has been a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams displaying moments of brilliance. 1. **India's Strong Start**: India initially dominated with a massive first-innings total and strong bowling performance. 2. **England's Fightback**: The partnership between Brook and Smith has revitalized England's chances, demonstrating resilience and skill. 3. **Current Outlook**: With India still holding a significant lead, the final days of the Test promise to be exciting as England attempts to chase down the target set by India. The match continues to unfold, and the outcome remains uncertain as both teams vie for supremacy in this gripping contest [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/smiths-lightning-century-rescues-england-after-horror-start-against-india-5220886, https://www.rediff.com/cricket/report/birmingham-test-pix-smith-century-brook-siraj-india-england-fight-back-on-day-3/20250704.htm].