India Battles Edgbaston Curse in Series-Leveling Bid Against England

India faces a formidable challenge at Edgbaston, a ground where they have historically struggled, as they seek to level the series against England. The team is determined to bounce back from the setback at Headingley, where, despite posting five centuries and setting a target of 371, they surrendered a commanding position. Now, they must overcome a long-standing unfavorable record at this venue.

The Indian team strategizing on the field.

India's Matches at a Venue Without a Win:

• Old Trafford, Manchester: 9 Tests
• Kensington Oval, Barbados: 9 Tests
• Edgbaston, Birmingham: 8 Tests
• Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore: 7 Tests
• Bourda, Guyana: 6 Tests
• National Stadium, Karachi: 6 Tests

Edgbaston has been a particularly difficult ground for India. In seven Test matches played here, they have never tasted victory. This upcoming Test marks their eighth attempt to break the jinx. Only Old Trafford in Manchester and Kensington Oval in Barbados have hosted more Indian Tests without a win, with nine each.

Indian players honing their skills during a practice session in Birmingham.

Despite controlling significant portions of the match at Headingley, England's aggressive chase, highlighted by Ben Duckett's 149 and Joe Root's composed finishing, condemned India to a painful defeat. This loss has placed considerable pressure on India as they trail 1-0 in the series.

Another defeat at Edgbaston would not only hand England the series victory but also further cement India's dismal record at this ground. History suggests that achieving a win here will be an uphill battle, with the pitch conditions and England's confidence posing significant obstacles.

A victory at Edgbaston would end a winless streak dating back to 1967. The team needs to display exceptional determination to rewrite the narrative of their Edgbaston encounters.