Shubman Gill Scripts History with Record 269 as India Dominate Day 2 at Edgbaston

In a monumental display of class and composure, 25-year-old Shubman Gill etched his name into the history books by becoming the first Indian captain to score a double century in a Test match at Edgbaston in England's Birmingham. The young skipper's innings of 265 not out has not only set multiple records but also reinforced his growing stature as one of the modern greats of Indian cricket.

Gill’s landmark knock came on the back of a flurry of records. He surpassed the legendary Sunil Gavaskar's 221 at The Oval in 1979, posting the highest individual score by an Indian batter on English soil. His moment of history was sealed in style—dispatching three consecutive boundaries off part-time spinner Harry Brook to cross Gavaskar’s mark.

The Punjab-born right-hander also went past Sachin Tendulkar’s 241 in Sydney (2004)* to become the first Indian to score over 250 runs outside the subcontinent. In doing so, Gill also eclipsed Virat Kohli’s 254, setting a new record for the highest score by an Indian Test captain.

Partnership Power

Resuming the day at 310/5, Gill and Ravindra Jadeja carried forward their overnight partnership, extending it to 203 runs before Jadeja fell for 19 to a Josh Tongue short delivery. Earlier, India had missed out on twin centuries as Yashasvi Jaiswal fell for a fluent 87.

Unfazed by the early dismissal, Gill found a dependable partner in Washington Sundar, and the duo stitched together a vital 144-run stand for the seventh wicket. While Sundar played the anchor with a patient 42, Gill switched gears post-lunch and took on the tiring English attack with a flurry of elegant strokes.

Gill in T20 Mode

Gill's innings, though played in whites, at times resembled a T20 masterclass. Once he reached the 200-mark, he opened up further, frequently finding boundaries with effortless timing. A rare outside edge brought up his 250, and a wry smile from Harry Brook, who bore the brunt of Gill's late assault, said it all.

Despite the sweltering summer sun and a flat Birmingham track that offered little assistance to bowlers, it was Gill’s temperament and technique that stood out. He remained unfazed, kept his footwork precise, and his shot selection immaculate throughout the innings.

India in Command

India, powered by Gill’s heroics, cruised past the 500-run mark, putting immense pressure on the English side. As the bowlers toiled, Gill remained immovable, calmly dictating the pace of the game and ensuring India’s dominance.

From a promising young prodigy to a commanding Test skipper, Shubman Gill’s innings at Birmingham will go down as one of the finest by an Indian overseas—a masterclass in patience, flair, and resilience.

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