In a topsy-turvy match, tables have turned quickly as England, who were trailing India by 132 runs and then were set up a huge target of 378 runs in 4th innings on a deteriorating pitch, are only 119 runs away from creating history. The 5th Day of the 5th Test at Edgbaston, in Birmingham, England awaits a spectacle as India looks to clinch series, while England looks to chase down what once seemed improbable.
If England chases down the target of 378, it will be their highest ever chased total in Test History, with their current best being 359 against Australia in Ashes 2019, where Ben Stokes scored one of the most iconic unbeaten centuries in Test Cricket’s history. Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow have been the architects of the England’s second innings as they are at the crease on the respective scores of 76 and 72. Indian bowling hasn’t been that sharp as it was during England’s first innings as Bumrah is the sole wicket taker for India with two wickets, as England start the 5th Day with 259 on the board, and 7 wickets in hand.
Given the fact that captain Ben Stokes, Sam Billings, Matty Potts are yet to come, Indian bowlers will be facing a daunting task of bowling England out and a ‘Lord’s 2021 2.0’ can save the day for Indian team.
The major headline for today coming from Edgbaston is that the Fifth Day of the 5th Test is between India and England is completely sold out after the announcements of free tickets of the match. The weather report states that there is no rain to be witnessed today, which comes as a good news as fans all over the world will be able to watch the Final Day uninterrupted.