England v India: second men’s cricket Test, day two – live

Good morning and welcome back to Edgbaston, where the second Test between England and India resumes with the tourists firmly in the ascendancy. After a compelling opening day, India find themselves in a commanding position, largely thanks to a magnificent, composed century from their captain. Much like the opening encounter at Headingley, Ben Stokes’ decision to insert the opposition after winning the toss yesterday appeared to backfire, at least initially. While England’s attack toiled, it was a 30-something stalwart who provided the most consistent threat, underlining the importance of experience on a pitch that offered little assistance to the quicker bowlers. The day ended with the tourists seemingly having compiled a formidable score, setting the stage for a critical morning session.

The first session of day two promises to be pivotal, offering crucial insights into just how truly commanding India’s overnight total is. Will they push on rapidly, looking to set an unassailable target, or will England’s bowlers finally find a way to break through and limit the damage? India’s team selection for this match has been a talking point, appearing to be more geared towards avoiding defeat in the last Test than aggressively pursuing victory in this one. This potentially conservative approach, perhaps opting for an extra batter or a more defensive bowling option, will be rigorously tested this morning as England seeks to make inroads.

This series has, thus far, been a batter’s paradise, and England’s formidable top seven will be relishing the prospect of taking to the crease on what has proven to be a remarkably placid surface. The absence of key Indian strike bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav from the attack presents a golden opportunity for England to build a substantial reply and claw their way back into the contest. The onus is now firmly on England’s batters to demonstrate their prowess and resilience. If they can withstand the early pressure and exploit the benign conditions, this Test could yet swing dramatically. The next few hours are set to define the immediate trajectory of this fascinating contest, determining whether India can solidify their advantage or if England can launch a compelling comeback.