How Did Smith's Unbeaten Century and Brook's 91* Spark England's Remarkable Comeback?
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Synopsis
Witness how Jamie Smith's remarkable century and Harry Brook's steadfast 91* led England to an unexpected comeback against India in the second Test. Discover the thrilling moments that defined this extraordinary day at Edgbaston!
Key Takeaways
- Jamie Smith scored a remarkable century under pressure.
- Harry Brook provided vital support with his innings.
- England staged a stunning counterattack after being 84/5.
- The partnership between Smith and Brook was crucial for England's innings.
- Smith's century is one of the quickest in England's Test history.
Birmingham, July 4 (NationPress) India might have believed they were on the brink of dismissing England cheaply after removing Joe Root and Ben Stokes on Day Three of the second Test in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at Edgbaston. However, Jamie Smith and Harry Brook had different plans, forging an impressive partnership with unbeaten scores of 102 and 91, respectively, to establish a rapid 165-run stand, leading an extraordinary counter-attack from England.
By lunch, Smith’s swift 80-ball century, marking his second in this format, dazzled with 14 fours and three sixes, while Brook's dynamic innings unfolded over 127 balls, bringing England to 249/5 in 47 overs, trailing India by 338 runs.
Despite being in a precarious position at 84/5, Smith and Brook displayed the fighting spirit emblematic of Bazball, unleashing a barrage of runs against the Indian bowlers during their unbroken sixth-wicket partnership.
Mohammed Siraj initiated the session with two quick strikes, dismissing Joe Root who edged a delivery to Rishabh Pant. On the very next ball, he caught Ben Stokes off guard with a short delivery, resulting in a simple catch for Pant, marking the England captain's first golden duck in Tests and plunging his team into turmoil.
However, runs began to accumulate in England's favor post the initial blows. Brook showcased elegance with his drives and flicks off Siraj, while Smith struck down the ground for boundaries. Brook recorded his second fifty of the series with a drive off Siraj, while Smith dismantled India’s short-ball strategy.
Smith unleashed an assault on Prasidh Krishna, scoring three fours and a six in one over, and as he approached his fifty off 43 balls, he continued to punish short deliveries, securing three fours from Washington Sundar and sending Ravindra Jadeja to the boundary again.
Smith's dominance over the Indian spinners persisted, culminating in two fours off Jadeja, with the latter being a sweeping shot that celebrated his sensational century. The Edgbaston crowd erupted in admiration, marking this as the joint third-quickest century in England's Test history.
Brief scores:
India 587 lead England 249/5 in 47 overs (Jamie Smith 102 not out, Harry Brook 91 not out; Mohammed Siraj 3-49, Akash Deep 2-59) by 338 runs
Point of View
I acknowledge the resilience displayed by the England team in the face of adversity. Their ability to bounce back and mount a significant counter-offensive is a testament to their skill and determination. This match reminds us of the unpredictable nature of Test cricket, where fortunes can change rapidly.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the score at lunch on Day Three?
At lunch, England was at 249/5 in 47 overs, trailing India by 338 runs, with Jamie Smith on 102 not out and Harry Brook on 91 not out.
Who were the key players in England's comeback?
Jamie Smith and Harry Brook were the pivotal players, scoring 102 and 91 not out, respectively, in a 165-run partnership.
What impact did the early wickets have?
The early wickets of Joe Root and Ben Stokes put England in a precarious position at 84/5, but Smith and Brook's partnership shifted the momentum.
How did the crowd react to Smith's century?
The crowd erupted in applause and admiration as Jamie Smith reached his century, marking a significant moment in the match.
What is the significance of this match?
This match highlights the unpredictability of Test cricket and showcases England's fighting spirit in the face of challenges.
