The five-match Test series between India and England has now reached its second stage. After losing the first Test in Leeds, Team India is now preparing to start the second Test with a bang on Edgbaston ground in Birmingham. This match will be played from July 2 to July 6. In the first match, the Indian batsmen performed really well and scored five centuries in both innings. India gave England a huge target of 371 runs to win, but England achieved it easily on the fifth day by losing five wickets. England batsman Ben Duckett finished the match by scoring a brilliant century.
There may be some changes in the playing eleven of the Indian team. After the defeat in the first test, Team India is now thinking of changing its playing eleven. The Indian team's assistant coach, Ryan Ten Descatte, has given clear indications that this time the team can go with two spinners. Ravindra Jadeja was the only spinner in the Leeds Test, but now either Kuldeep Yadav or Washington Sundar can get a chance.
Coach Descatte said,
"The possibility of playing two spinners is quite strong. The only question is which two spinners will play. All three spinners are doing well. Washington Sundar is also batting well. In such a situation, we have to see whether we want an all-rounder spinner or a specialist spinner. Also, there should be a bowling all-rounder on the team. Therefore, many options are being considered."
The Edgbaston ground has not been very good for India so far. India has played seven matches here in the 123-year Test history but has not won a single one. Out of these, six matches have been lost and one match was a draw. In such a situation, this match will be very challenging for Team India.
Now all eyes are on head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill. The biggest challenge before both is to change the record of Edgbaston. Shubman has a chance to make history by registering a win at Edgbaston under his captaincy. It remains to be seen how they capitalize on this opportunity and whether Team India is able to break its old record this time or not.
Looking at the weather and pitch conditions, the final decision on who will play among the two spinners will be taken on the day of the match. If Team India comes out with two spinners, it will also be a big test for England's batting line-up. Indian fans hope that this time their team will end the wait for victory at Edgbaston.