Edgbaston, July 7: Team India have finally opened their account in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle with a commanding 336-run victory over England in the second Test at Edgbaston, levelling the five-match series 1-1 and climbing up the WTC standings.
Shubman Gill led India’s resurgence with a pair of majestic knocks — 269 in the first innings followed by an unbeaten 161 in the second — as the visitors posted imposing totals of 587 and 427 for 6 declared.
Despite some chatter around a delayed declaration on Day Four, India were in no mood to take risks after their Headingley heartbreak and instead opted to ensure all chances of defeat were nullified before setting England a near-impossible target of 608.
England’s response was shaky from the outset. Reduced to 50 for 3 before stumps on Day Four, the hosts never looked in contention. Rain delayed proceedings on the final day, but it only delayed the inevitable.
England were eventually dismissed for 271, succumbing to pressure and some brilliant bowling by India. Mohammed Siraj starred with a six-wicket haul in the first innings, while Akash Deep returned the favour in the second with a six-for of his own. India’s win gives them 12 points and lifts their points percentage (PCT) to 50 — the same as England, who had taken an early lead in the series after winning at Headingley.
Both sides now sit mid-table in a tightly packed early-stage leaderboard.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka — who remain unbeaten after two matches — continue to lead among active teams with a PCT of 66.67.
Australia, the reigning champions, currently top the table with a perfect 100% PCT, though their position may change depending on the outcome of the ongoing Test in Grenada against the West Indies.
With the series now evenly poised and India riding on a wave of momentum, the focus shifts to Lord’s, where the third Test begins on July 10.
Both teams will be eager to seize the advantage — and precious WTC points — as the battle for the Championship heats up.
As the caravan moves to the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With the series locked at 1-1 and the World Test Championship table beginning to take shape, every session from here on carries significant weight. For India, the emphatic Edgbaston win has reignited belief and brought their campaign back on track. For England, it’s a chance to respond under pressure, reassess their plans, and reclaim the momentum on home soil. (Agencies)
