India have taken control of the second Test against England, leaving their hosts facing defeat. Shubman Gill’s dominating innings of 161 helped India build a significant lead, while Akash Deep’s impressive debut in England claimed three top-order wickets.
England, who needed to score 536 runs to win, were bowled out for just 72-3 at the end of day four. Zak Crawley was caught out for a duck on his first ball, and Ben Duckett hit five boundaries before being bowled by Deep for 25. Joe Root’s dismissal marked another blow to England’s hopes.
Gill’s innings followed his epic 269 in the first Test, and he became the second player to record scores over 250 and 150 in the same Test. Despite facing pressure from their batsmen, India declared on 427-6, leaving England a long way behind.
England captain Ben Stokes is under pressure after a lackluster performance with the bat, while his tactics have been questioned for going too aggressively without a chance of drawing the match. Former England captain Michael Vaughan said that winning draws was not in their natural instinct, and ex-bowler Steven Finn praised India’s ability to make the most of every opportunity.
The series now stands at 1-0 in favor of India, with the third Test set for Lord’s next week.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/sport/cricket/articles/c4gew756wwjo