Fri Jul 04 16:23:44 UTC 2025: **Siraj’s Five-Wicket Haul Puts India in Strong Position Despite Smith and Brook’s Resistance**
**Edgbaston, Birmingham -** Mohammed Siraj’s impressive five-wicket haul has given India a significant advantage on Day 3 of the second Test against England at Edgbaston. England closed the day at 407/9, still trailing India’s first innings total of 587.
India made inroads with the second new ball in the final session, thanks to Siraj’s efforts. Earlier in the day, he stunned England by dismissing key batsmen Joe Root and Ben Stokes in consecutive deliveries.
England’s innings was highlighted by a remarkable 303-run partnership between Jamie Smith, who is nearing a double century, and Harry Brook. Brook was eventually dismissed for 158 by Akash Deep, who replaced Jasprit Bumrah and took four crucial wickets. The pair helped rescue England from a precarious 84/5.
India’s imposing first innings total was built around a record-breaking 269 by captain Shubman Gill. With just one wicket remaining, England face a tough task to overhaul the deficit and put pressure on India.
First Piper 