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The opening day of the second Test between England and India at Edgbaston saw plenty of action, drama, and moments of contention. India ended Day 1 in a commanding position at 310/5, courtesy of a resilient unbeaten 99-run partnership between Ravindra Jadeja and Shubman Gill. However, the day wasn’t without controversy, as England pacer Chris Woakes expressed his disappointment over a couple of umpiring decisions that didn’t favour the home side.
Umpiring calls leave Chris Woakes disappointed on Day 1 of the second Test
Woakes was the most effective bowler for England, delivering a tidy spell and picking up two crucial wickets — KL Rahul and Nitish Kumar Reddy. His figures of 21-6-59-2 reflect a strong performance, but the experienced seamer was visibly frustrated by the fine margins that went against him.
One such incident involved Yashasvi Jaiswal, who survived a close LBW appeal when ball-tracking showed the delivery clipping the top of off-stump — resulting in an “umpire’s call.” A few overs later, Karun Nair left a delivery that struck him on the pads, only for the appeal to be turned down once again.
“Yes, it’s frustrating when such decisions go against you. These things happen in the game, and we just have to move on,” said Woakes during the post-day press conference.
Benefiting from those narrow escapes, Jaiswal went on to play a fluent knock of 87, while Nair contributed a handy 31 off 50 balls. Their contributions ensured India built a solid foundation despite a couple of setbacks, including the quick dismissals of Rishabh Pant and Nitish.
Also WATCH: ENG vs IND – Rishabh Pant vents frustration, slams helmet after losing his wicket in Edgbaston Test
Woakes hopeful of Day 2 comeback if England strike early
Woakes remained optimistic despite India’s strong position at the end of Day 1, stating that the pitch still offers assistance to bowlers who maintain discipline and hit the right lengths. He noted that England had managed to pick up wickets at regular intervals throughout the day, and emphasized that an early breakthrough on Day 2 — particularly the dismissal of the well-set Jadeja-Gill pair — could swing the momentum back in England’s favour and keep them firmly in the contest.
“It’s still a good pitch. There’s enough in it if you hit the right areas. We’ve got wickets at regular intervals. If we can break this stand early tomorrow, we’re still in the game,” Woakes added.
Also WATCH: Ben Stokes silences Yashasvi Jaiswal with wicket after fiery verbal duel in Edgbaston Test
