India Gears Up for Second Test Against England at Edgbaston

Preparations Underway for Crucial Test Match

Following a brief hiatus, Team India has commenced its preparations for the upcoming second Test against England, set to take place at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Currently trailing 0-1 in the five-match series, the Indian squad kicked off their training with an intensive fielding session, focusing on improving their catching and direct hits, especially after experiencing eight dropped catches in the first Test.

Except for Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna, all bowlers participated in the net practice. Mohammed Siraj did not bowl but worked on his batting alongside assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, honing his skills to handle short-pitched deliveries. Meanwhile, Bumrah and Prasidh engaged in running and fitness drills, with Siraj joining the nets later. Notably, none of the three fast bowlers bowled during this session.

Reports suggest that Bumrah may be rested for the second Test, with a final decision expected just before the match. The pitch at Edgbaston is anticipated to offer more spin compared to Headingley, prompting the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar to bowl extended spells alongside Ravindra Jadeja.

In practice, their bowling has reportedly posed challenges for Rishabh Pant, leading to calls for Kuldeep's inclusion in the playing XI. Should Bumrah be unavailable, either Akash Deep or Arshdeep Singh could be brought into the squad, as both seamers practiced with both new and old balls.

Additionally, Shardul Thakur and Nitish Kumar Reddy participated in the training, taking on all-rounder roles. An optional practice session is scheduled for Saturday, June 28, though it remains uncertain whether India's pace bowlers will take part.