England vs India second Test ended with a convincing 336-run win for India, and England head coach Brendon McCullum admitted his team got the toss decision wrong at Edgbaston. The result levels the series 1-1, and questions have now been raised over England’s tactics and pitch-reading strategy.
England’s Toss Decision Backfires
England chose to bowl first, anticipating that the pitch would improve for batting over five days. However, the surface offered significant turn and variable bounce by day five. India capitalized on the favorable conditions to post a massive 587 in the first innings, leaving England playing catch-up throughout the match.
McCullum accepted the gamble did not pay off. He stated, “We thought the pitch might get better, but it didn’t. In hindsight, we probably missed an opportunity.”
Shubman Gill and Akash Deep Dominate
India’s win was driven by Shubman Gill’s elite batting—he scored 269 and 161—and Akash Deep’s six-wicket haul on the final day. McCullum acknowledged both players, especially praising Deep’s use of the deteriorating pitch. The England coach also highlighted how the surface resembled subcontinental conditions by the end, something Deep exploited expertly.
India bounce back strong! 💥
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) July 6, 2025
Win the 2nd Test at Birmingham against England 🇮🇳🔥
📸 Getty#INDvsENG #TeamIndia #TestVictory #CricketComeback #BirminghamTest #WicketBuzz #IndianCricket #TestWin #CricketCelebration #BleedBlue pic.twitter.com/DB26Bj53L2
England Reflect and Regroup for Lord’s
Despite moments of resistance from Jamie Smith and Harry Brook, McCullum admitted that England were second-best across all five days. Looking ahead to the third Test at Lord’s, McCullum remains hopeful, especially with Jasprit Bumrah returning for India.
He added, “We’ve got to be better prepared. The surface at Lord’s will be different, and that suits us.”
Learning From the Edgbaston Mistake
England’s decision at the toss became a turning point in the England vs India second Test. While McCullum backed his team’s style of play, he recognized the need for flexibility in strategy based on conditions.
