'My goodness, a wicket!' - Root removes Washington for 42

The collective sigh of relief from the Edgbaston faithful was almost as audible as the roar that accompanied it, as Joe Root finally delivered a much-needed breakthrough for England just before the tea interval on day two of the second Test against India. After a long and arduous session where wickets proved frustratingly elusive for the home side, it was their captain, with his part-time off-spin, who managed to dislodge the resilient Washington Sundar. Sundar, who had looked increasingly comfortable at the crease and was building a valuable partnership, was bowled for a well-made 42, leaving India on a commanding 558 for 7. This dismissal, the second of the day for England, offered a glimmer of hope amidst what had largely been a dominant Indian batting display.

Indeed, day two at Edgbaston had been a testament to India's batting depth and England's considerable struggles to make inroads. The morning session saw India continue to pile on the runs with relative ease, extending their already formidable overnight total. Partnerships blossomed, and the English bowlers, despite their best efforts, found themselves consistently thwarted by disciplined batting and a pitch that offered little assistance. The frustration was palpable, with fielders toiling under the Birmingham sun and the scoreboard ticking over relentlessly. Sundar's partnership before his dismissal had further solidified India's commanding position, pushing the total well beyond the 500-run mark and setting a daunting challenge for England's upcoming innings.

Root's ability to provide these crucial breakthroughs with his occasional spin has become a familiar sight for England fans, often turning to him when the frontline bowlers are struggling for inspiration. His dismissal of Sundar, though perhaps unexpected from a part-timer, was a testament to his knack for breaking partnerships and injecting life back into the game. As the players headed for tea, India's colossal total underscored the immense task awaiting England. With only three wickets left to take, the home side will be desperate to wrap up the innings swiftly after the break and then face the monumental challenge of responding with the bat to India's imposing declaration, or more likely, their eventual all-out score. The second Test has firmly swung in India's favour, setting up a fascinating battle for the remainder of the match.