In a moment that summed up England’s frustration, a powerful stroke from India captain Shubman Gill led to a mid-field collision between England’s Joe Root and Zak Crawley on Day 2 of the second Test at Edgbaston. The incident, though not serious, symbolised the mounting pressure on the hosts as Gill continued his batting masterclass.
India’s skipper was in sublime touch, playing what is arguably the finest innings of his Test career. Gill reached a historic double century, becoming the first Indian captain to score a double hundred in England — and the first Asian skipper to achieve the feat in SENA countries. His presence at the crease was commanding, as he nullified England’s bowling attack with composure and flair.
The moment of drama unfolded in the 118th over when Josh Tongue, clearly fatigued, delivered a short-of-a-length ball on the leg stump to Gill. The Indian skipper, with perfect timing, tucked it toward square leg.
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In a desperate attempt to cut off the boundary, both Root and Crawley sprinted from deep square and backward square-leg positions and ended up colliding awkwardly. The ball raced to the fence, and while the collision looked alarming, fortunately, both fielders escaped unhurt.
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The scene illustrated just how relentless India had been. Gill’s shot placement, calmness, and ability to pick gaps left the English fielders scrambling, quite literally. Josh Tongue, bowling his ninth over across two sessions, looked drained, prompting former cricketer Mark Butcher to quip on Sky Sports, “Tongue might be running out of gas. England need to break this partnership very, very quickly.”
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Former England captain Michael Atherton, speaking on commentary, was full of praise for Gill. “It’s been a masterclass — an utterly chanceless innings. Gill has never looked under threat. His off-side play, especially the drives, has been exquisite. There’s an inevitability about his dominance.”
Atherton also highlighted the toll India’s dominance had taken on England’s discipline. “It’s all become a bit messy in the field. That’s what happens when one team completely takes control. England are losing their shape and direction, and India are capitalising.”
With his double ton, Gill not only scripted history but also asserted India’s control in the Test, putting England firmly on the back foot.
