Jaiswal rebuilds India after being made to bat first by England at Edgbaston

BIRMINGHAM, England – A challenging start for India in the second Test at Edgbaston saw them reach 98 for 2 at lunch on Wednesday, with young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal leading a crucial recovery after England’s captain opted to bowl first under overcast skies. The decision to put the visitors in to bat immediately signaled England’s intent to exploit any early movement off the pitch, and their bowlers found some initial success, dismissing two top-order batsmen within the first hour of play, leaving India wobbling precariously. The early breakthroughs provided England with the momentum they sought, but the subsequent partnership began to chip away at their advantage.

It was Jaiswal who emerged as the cornerstone of India’s resilience. Displaying a maturity beyond his years, the left-handed batsman absorbed the early pressure, navigating probing spells from England’s pacemen. His innings was characterized by a blend of watchful defence and opportune stroke play, ensuring the scoreboard continued to tick over without taking undue risks. Jaiswal's calm presence at the crease provided much-needed stability, allowing India to regroup after the initial setbacks. He batted with composure, patiently building his innings and forming a vital partnership that blunted England’s early charge, pushing India towards a more respectable total by the lunch break.

The score of 98 for 2 at the interval represents a significant recovery for India, transforming what could have been a disastrous morning into a solid platform for the remainder of the day. While England’s bowlers, particularly their new-ball exponents, maintained a disciplined line and length, they were unable to replicate their initial burst of wickets as the session progressed. The pitch, initially offering some assistance, appeared to flatten out slightly, allowing Jaiswal and his partner to settle in. For India, the challenge now lies in consolidating this position and converting the promising start into a substantial first-innings total, thereby putting pressure back on the hosts in what promises to be a gripping contest at the heart of the Test series.