The second Test between India and England at Edgbaston kicked off with fireworks—not just with the bat, but also in an intense verbal duel between Yashasvi Jaiswal and England skipper Ben Stokes. The heated exchange took place during the 17th over of India’s innings on Day 1, with both players exchanging cold stares after Stokes bowled a tight over and Jaiswal responded with a commanding boundary.
Known for their fierce competitiveness, neither Jaiswal nor Stokes backed down. The tension reflected the high stakes of the match, especially with India trailing 0-1 in the five-match series.
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Jaiswal, who scored a brilliant century in the first Test at Headingley, had come under scrutiny for his fielding lapses, particularly dropping Ben Duckett on 97—a moment that proved costly as the England opener went on to make 149. However, the young Indian opener appeared determined to make amends, coming out with an aggressive mindset right from the start.
Some heated JAISBALL 🆚 BAZBALL on display! 👀#ENGvIND 👉 2nd Test, Day 1 | LIVE NOW on JioHotstar ➡ https://t.co/g6BryBoy3Y pic.twitter.com/ZJWy1ir2ih
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) July 2, 2025
Taking full advantage of the favorable batting conditions, Jaiswal launched a counterattack that rattled the English bowlers. He was particularly severe on Josh Tongue, who was England’s most successful bowler in the previous match. Jaiswal dispatched him for three consecutive boundaries in the 22nd over, bringing up his half-century in just 59 deliveries.
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KL Rahul’s early dismissal did little to slow India down. Jaiswal found an able partner in Karun Nair, with whom he stitched together a brisk 80-run stand off just 90 balls. Nair’s innings was cut short by a beauty from Brydon Carse right before the lunch break.
At the end of the first session, India found themselves in a commanding position at 98/2 in 25 overs, with Jaiswal unbeaten on a fluent 62 off 69 balls and captain Shubman Gill settling in at the other end.
