The India vs England Test match on July 4, 2025, delivered one of the most thrilling days of cricket in the series so far. Played at the iconic Edgbaston ground, the match saw India seize the upper hand after a series of key moments and tactical brilliance. In this article, we analyze how India gained momentum and put themselves in a winning position.

Match Context

The second Test of the highly anticipated series had both teams under pressure. England was determined to level the series, while India was focused on maintaining its dominance. With the match finely balanced after the first three days, the events of July 4 played a decisive role in shaping the contest.

Early Breakthroughs Set the Tone

The day began with England resuming their innings, hoping to build a lead. However, India’s fast bowlers struck early, removing key batsmen before they could settle.

Key Wickets:

• Jasprit Bumrah dismissed the well-set opener with a perfect outswinger.

• Mohammed Siraj trapped England’s middle-order batsman LBW with a sharp in-swinging delivery.

These early wickets ensured that England could not capitalize on their overnight position, tilting the momentum in India’s favor.

Spin Comes into Play

As the pitch started offering some turn, Ravindra Jadeja was introduced into the attack. His accuracy and subtle variations tied down the English batsmen, creating pressure and forcing errors.

• Jadeja’s dismissal of Joe Root was a turning point. The veteran batsman’s departure shifted the game firmly towards India.

• His economical spells kept England’s scoring rate in check, adding to their mounting pressure.

Fielding Brilliance

India’s fielders played a crucial role in maintaining momentum. Sharp catches and athletic ground fielding saved valuable runs.

• A stunning catch by Shubman Gill at slip to dismiss Ben Stokes was one of the day’s highlights.

• Close-in fielders backed up the bowlers, creating a sense of urgency for the English batsmen.

England's Middle-Order Collapse

The most significant turning point came when England lost four wickets in quick succession. Misjudged shots, tight bowling, and growing scoreboard pressure contributed to their downfall.

Key Dismissals:

• Bairstow’s mistimed pull shot.

• Stokes caught at slip after a loose drive.

• Lower-order batsmen falling to reverse swing.

This collapse effectively handed the advantage to India and set them on the path to a likely victory.

India's Positive Batting Response

With a manageable target to chase or build upon, India’s top-order batsmen showed maturity and composure.

• Rohit Sharma led from the front with a steady knock, blunting the new ball.

• Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill rotated the strike well, keeping the scoreboard ticking.

Their partnership ensured that India did not give England any early hope of a comeback.

Key Tactical Decisions

India’s ability to control the game was also a result of smart captaincy and tactical decisions:

1. Early Use of Spin: Jadeja was brought in as soon as the pitch showed signs of wear.

2. Aggressive Field Settings: India maintained attacking fields to capitalize on England’s mistakes.

3. Balanced Bowling Rotations: Bowlers were used in short, sharp spells to maintain intensity.

The Psychological Edge

By the end of July 4, it was clear that India had not just gained the upper hand on the field but also psychologically. England’s body language suggested frustration, while the Indian camp looked confident and in control.

• England’s batsmen played defensively under pressure.

• Indian bowlers celebrated each wicket with energy, lifting team morale.

Player of the Day: Jasprit Bumrah

Bumrah’s exceptional spell of fast bowling was the catalyst for India’s momentum shift. His ability to swing the ball, hit the right lengths, and maintain pace made the difference. He finished the day with crucial wickets that dented England’s hopes.

Statistical Highlights

• Top Wicket-Taker: Jasprit Bumrah (4 wickets)

• Best Economy: Ravindra Jadeja

• Top Scorer: Rohit Sharma (unbeaten half-century)

Looking Ahead

With just one day remaining, India is in a strong position to win the Test and take control of the series. England’s hopes rest on producing a miracle with the ball or managing to bat out time in their second innings if required.

Factors to Watch:

• Pitch deterioration, likely to assist spinners.

• England’s mental resilience.

• Weather conditions for the final day.

Conclusion

The events of July 4, 2025, will be remembered as the day India seized control of the Test match through disciplined bowling, sharp fielding, and steady batting. The turning points—especially early wickets, Jadeja’s key spell, and smart tactics—highlighted India’s strength as a cohesive unit.

As the Test nears its conclusion, fans eagerly await to see if India can wrap up a memorable win and move ahead in this closely contested series. For continuous updates, expert predictions, and match analysis, stay connected.