ENG vs IND: Three things India need to do right on Day 5 at Edgbaston Test against England

India is just seven wickets away from a big win at Edgbaston that would level the five-match Test series 1–1. After setting England a massive target of 608, India ended Day 4 on a high by reducing the hosts to 72/3. but, with rain likely and a full day’s cricket ahead, India needs to stay focused and execute a few key things correctly to finish the job. Here are the three most important things India must do on Day 5:

1. Maximize New Ball Impact

The second new ball is still quite fresh, only 16 overs old at the start of Day 5, and it’s been effective already. Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep used it brilliantly to remove Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, and Joe Root late on Day 4. With overcast conditions early in the day, India will have to bowl tight lines and target the stumps. Getting out set batters Ollie Pope and Harry Brook before they settle in will be crucial to breaking England’s resistance.

2. Leverage Spin to Disrupt England’s Middle Order

Edgbaston has never been a spin-friendly surface; spinners average over 44 runs per wicket at Edgbaston. Still, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar must keep things tight from one end. Jadeja hasn’t had the best of runs in this series, but he can still use the rough patches to create chances. India may also miss the variety that Kuldeep Yadav could have added, as he’s done well against England before. But with the current XI, it’s all about keeping pressure through control.

See Also: ENG vs IND Birmingham weather forecast, Day 5: Rain threat casts shadow on Shubman Gill’s late declaration

3. Maintain Fielding Discipline

In the first Test, India’s fielding was below par, with missed catches costing them big. Now, with the match on the line, the fielders, especially in the slips and close-in positions, need to be alert. Bowlers like Siraj and Akash Deep are likely to find the edge again, and every chance must be taken. With rain likely to eat into playing time, India simply can’t afford to let any opportunities slip.

If India can take advantage of the new ball early, manage spin wisely, and stay sharp in the field, they are well placed to take the remaining seven wickets. The pitch and weather will test their patience, but a disciplined, focused effort could bring them a famous away Test win.