England vs India 2nd Test 2025: The first Test between England and India at Headingley is at an exciting phase. At the start of the fifth day, England need 350 runs to win, while India need 10 wickets. But now all eyes are on the next match, which will be played from 2 to 6 July 2025 at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Let's know how the pitch, weather and scoring trends of this ground remain in Test matches ahead of England vs India 2nd Test 2025.

Pitch nature of Edgbaston ahead of England vs India 2nd Test 2025: Initial help to fast bowlers

The Edgbaston pitch gives movement to fast bowlers in the beginning. On the morning of the first day, both green grass and wind are often favorable to fast bowlers. But as the match progresses, the pitch dries up and batsmen start getting help. By the fifth day, some cracks emerge, due to which spinners also come into play. Therefore, this pitch behaves differently on all five days.

Weather plays an important role at Edgbaston, Birmingham

The weather in Birmingham changes frequently. There is a possibility of rain in July, which affects the number of overs. When it is cloudy, the ball swings, which gives an edge to the fast bowlers. On the other hand, if the sun is shining, then batting becomes easier. Therefore, the weather conditions force a change in strategy every session.

What does the captain decide after winning the toss at Edgbaston?

After winning the toss at Edgbaston, most captains prefer to bat first. A big reason for this is that it is easy to score runs in the first innings and put pressure on the opposition team to score. Batting becomes difficult in the fourth innings because then the pitch starts giving uneven bounce and spinners get help.

Average score from the first to the fourth innings at Edgbaston, Birmingham.

• Average score of first innings: around 310 runs

• Average score of second innings: around 280 runs
• Average score of third innings: 230 to 250 runs
• Average score of fourth innings: 170 to 200 runs

It is clear from these figures that the team which scores big in the first innings has a better chance of winning. Chasing a target in the fourth innings is risky, especially if the score crosses 250.

History of England vs India at Edgbaston

India has played some memorable matches on this ground so far, but England has had the upper hand. The support of the home crowd and understanding of the conditions give the English team an edge. However, in recent years, India has performed better in these conditions in England.

The first innings is of utmost importance in the Edgbaston Test. Both the weather and the pitch favour the bowlers in the early days, but batting becomes easier later on. It is considered wise for the captain to bat first after winning the toss. The team that takes an early lead maintains its hold on the match till the end.