Washington Sundar provided India with a crucial breakthrough just before lunch on Day 5 by dismissing England captain Ben Stokes for 33 runs, tightening India’s grip on the second Test at Edgbaston. At the lunch break, England were struggling at 153/6, still needing a monumental 455 runs to win.
It was the first wicket taken by an Indian spinner in the match—and it came at a vital moment. Sundar got one to turn just enough to beat Stokes’ defence and trap him plumb in front. Although Stokes immediately opted for a review, replays confirmed the ball would have crashed into middle stump. India’s celebration made it clear how big that wicket was in the context of the match.
Jadeja’s Game Awareness Sets the Trap
The wicket wouldn’t have been possible without Ravindra Jadeja’s smart game awareness. Just before the scheduled break, Jadeja rushed through his over in under 100 seconds, allowing India to sneak in one additional over before lunch. That over was handed to Washington, who made it count with the dismissal of England’s captain. It was a perfect example of sharp team coordination and situational awareness from India’s bowlers.
India’s bowlers were on point throughout the morning session. Akash Deep continued his dream debut series, removing Ollie Pope early and then striking again to dismiss Harry Brook, leaving England in deep trouble at 83/5.
After those setbacks, Ben Stokes and Jamie Smith stitched together a steady 70-run partnership, briefly giving England some stability. However, just when they looked to take the game deeper, Stokes’ dismissal at the stroke of lunch further tilted the balance firmly in India’s favour.
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