Post by : Jyoti Gupta

Photo:AP

The five-match Test series between India and England continues this week, with the second game starting on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at Edgbaston in Birmingham. The match is expected to run until Sunday, July 6, if all five days are needed.

England leads the series 1–0 after a strong comeback win in the first Test. They successfully chased down a massive target of 371 runs in Leeds — one of the highest successful run chases in Test history. India, eager to level the series, will be looking for a strong response.

For this match, Ben Stokes will continue as captain for England. The team is sticking with the same playing eleven that won the last match. Jofra Archer, the pace bowler, is not available for this Test as he missed training due to a personal matter.

India is likely to decide on the final team closer to the start of the game. There’s a chance Jasprit Bumrah could be rested to manage his workload, given the long season ahead. Shubman Gill will lead the team again as captain, while Rishabh Pant serves as his deputy.

Tickets are nearly sold out for the first four days of the match, though a few hospitality seats remain. Cricket fans across the globe are expected to tune in through live broadcasts and streaming platforms.

This Test is also part of the World Test Championship, making it important for both teams to collect crucial points. With the third Test scheduled at The Oval in London, both sides are keen to carry the momentum forward.