On the eve of the second Test in their ongoing five-match series against England, the Indian cricket team received a sudden jolt—not from the opposition, but due to a security scare in Birmingham. A suspicious package was discovered near Centenary Square, prompting police to cordon off the area and urge the public to steer clear. In light of the situation, the Indian team was advised by the BCCI to remain indoors for safety.

A BCCI official confirmed that players and support staff were told not to venture out following a social media alert issued by Birmingham City Centre Police. Interestingly, the squad had been using the break between Tests to explore the lively Broad Street area, which is close to where the package was found.

ALSO READ: “We know what he brings to the Indian team” – Ben Stokes heaps praise on Rishabh Pant

The police posted on X (formerly Twitter): “We’ve currently got a cordon in place around Centenary Square, Birmingham city centre, while we investigate a suspicious package… A number of buildings have been evacuated as a precaution.” Fortunately, the cordon was lifted within an hour after authorities declared the situation under control.

We’ve currently got a cordon in place around Centenary Square, #Birmingham city centre, while we investigate a suspicious package.

We were alerted just before 3pm, and a number of buildings have been evacuated as a precaution while it’s assessed.

Please avoid the area. pic.twitter.com/wlpKTna44w

— Birmingham City Centre Police (@BrumCityWMP) July 1, 2025

Meanwhile, cricket continued as usual. Eight members of the Indian squad, including captain Shubman Gill, turned up for practice at Edgbaston. The rest were on a scheduled rest day.

On the cricketing front, India find themselves under pressure after losing the first Test at Headingley. Despite a slender six-run first-innings lead, poor fielding and undisciplined bowling saw them concede a five-wicket defeat as England chased down a daunting 371-run target late on Day 5.

ALSO READ: “Bumrah is surely available” – Shubman Gill

As they head into the second Test at Edgbaston, a venue where India have managed just one win in eight outings, Gill’s men will need more than just intent—they’ll need discipline, execution, and a bit of luck to turn the tide in their favour.