India registered a historic 336-run victory over England in the second Test at Edgbaston, leveling the five-match series 1-1. This significant win marked Shubman Gill's first as Test captain and was particularly special as India had never secured a Test win at this venue before. The comprehensive performance by the Indian side silenced initial doubts, especially concerning a late declaration, and highlighted the team's depth and resilience.

Shubman Gill, leading the team in the absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, showcased exceptional form and composure. He accumulated 585 runs in four innings across the first two matches, making him the leading run-scorer in the series with an average of 146.25. His monumental scores of 269 and 161 at Edgbaston totaled 430 runs, marking the second-highest Test aggregate by a batter after Graham Gooch’s 456 against India in 1990. Furthermore, Gill became the first player to score over 200 and 150 runs in the same Test match. His captaincy reflected a calm and measured personality with an underlying fire, valuing effort and ensuring players like Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj felt secure in their roles, even when performances were not immediately visible.

India's batting prowess was evident as they posted mammoth totals in both innings, including a first-innings score of 587 and reaching the 1,000-run mark in a Test match for the first time. The bowlers, despite the absence of key pacer Jasprit Bumrah, delivered spectacularly. Debutant Akash Deep seized his opportunity, delivering a maiden six-wicket haul that played a crucial role in sealing England’s collapse. Former India pacer Varun Aaron lauded India's aggressive response, stating that the team effectively beat England at their own game. He also emphasized the significance of India proving their capability to win without over-reliance on Bumrah, noting that the pacers collectively took 16-17 wickets, making the captain's job much easier.

England's head coach Brendon McCullum conceded that electing to bowl first after winning the toss was a mistake, as the pitch played differently than anticipated. Despite having India at 200 for five, England failed to capitalize, allowing India to post a daunting 587. McCullum noted that only a brilliant partnership between Jamie Smith (184 unbeaten) and Harry Brook (158) offered any balance in the game for England. Captain Ben Stokes, while acknowledging the toss played a role, pointed to England's inability to dismantle India's lower order in the first innings, where India recovered from 211-5. McCullum also praised Akash Deep's outstanding bowling, attributing his success to his experience on similar surfaces. He anticipates a different challenge at Lord's with Bumrah's likely return.

The declaration strategy by Shubman Gill, which occurred nearly an hour after tea on Day 4 despite rain forecasts, initially raised eyebrows. However, the resounding victory validated his decision. Former India captain Dilip Vengsarkar echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the win was paramount. Vengsarkar also praised Akash Deep, predicting he would become a frontline bowler, but raised concerns about the spin department, suggesting Kuldeep Yadav's inclusion would be beneficial. With this momentum, India heads to Lord's, cricket's most storied venue, for the third Test starting July 10. England, meanwhile, has responded by adding Gus Atkinson to their squad, with Jofra Archer also potentially featuring. The series promises to intensify, with both teams eager to gain an advantage.