India carved out a commanding first-innings lead of 180 runs on the third day of the second Test at Edgbaston on Friday, thanks to a fiery six-wicket haul from Mohammed Siraj and a crucial four-for from Akash Deep, who together bundled England out for 407. Despite a spirited resistance from England’s middle order, led by the heroic partnership of Harry Brook and Jamie Smith, the visitors ended the day firmly in control.

Resuming under clear skies, India wasted no time in making early inroads. Siraj, bowling with impeccable discipline and venom, struck two decisive blows in the morning session. He first accounted for Joe Root, who edged behind for 22, and then produced a superb rising delivery to send England captain Ben Stokes back for a golden duck. At that stage, England were tottering at 84 for 5, staring down the barrel of a follow-on.

However, what followed was an extraordinary counterattack. Smith, showcasing remarkable poise and aggression, combined forces with Brook to orchestrate a remarkable revival. The pair put on a mammoth 303-run stand for the sixth wicket, rewriting the record books for England against India. Brook played a sublime innings, amassing 158 runs with a blend of elegance and power, while Smith remained unbeaten on a masterful 184, countering everything the Indian bowlers threw at him.