Day three of the Edgbaston Test delivered pure Test cricket drama. While England dazzled with Jamie Smith’s unbeaten 184 and Harry Brook’s 158, a stunning Siraj six-for tilted the match back in India’s favour. By stumps, India had reached 64 for 1 in their second innings, extending their overall lead to 244 runs.
Early Strikes and Siraj Six-for Rattle England
Mohammed Siraj set the tone for India with two quick wickets in the day’s second over. Joe Root edged down the leg side, and Ben Stokes fell to a fiery short delivery. England, reeling at 84 for 5, found themselves facing a massive deficit.
However, Siraj wasn’t done. Later, he returned with the second new ball to clean up the tail, finishing with figures of 6 for 70—his first five-wicket haul in England. The Siraj six-for confirmed a crucial 180-run first-innings lead.
Siraj stays ice cold under pressure ❄
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) July 4, 2025
6-wicket masterclass to stun England! 🔥 #Siraj #INDvsENG #TestCricket #BowlingMagic #ComebackKing #WicketBuzz #TeamIndia #CricketVibes #IndianBowler #SirajStorm pic.twitter.com/mEAiZRwEEC
Smith and Brook Centuries Spark England Revival
Despite the early collapse, Jamie Smith launched a breathtaking counterattack. His first century came off just 80 balls, matching the third-fastest Test ton by an English batter. Partnering with Brook, the duo added 303 runs—the second-highest sixth-wicket stand for England.
Brook’s controlled knock brought him his ninth Test hundred and his first against India. However, he was dismissed shortly after reaching 158, as the second new ball finally paid dividends for India.
India Bat Again, Lead Swells Beyond 200
India’s openers began aggressively in their second innings. KL Rahul remained unbeaten on 28, while Jaiswal scored a brisk 28 before falling to Josh Tongue. Though a review drama followed, the dismissal stood, ending the mini session in England’s favour.
Yet, with the Siraj six-for setting the tone and India’s batting depth still to come, the visitors remain in control. A lead of 244 with nine wickets in hand gives India the edge heading into Day 4.
