India, July 6 -- India bounced back in stunning fashion from the Leeds defeat to dominate the second Test in Birmingham, with captain Shubman Gill at the heart of it. The 25-year-old piled up over 400 runs across two innings-featuring a double century and a ton-as India set England a towering target of 608. The visitors then made quick inroads, reducing England to 72/3 in just 16 overs by the close of Day 4.

Despite India firmly holding the upper hand heading into Day 5, experts questioned Gill's delayed declaration, which came nearly an hour after Tea. Many felt India lost precious time to bowl England out and level the series.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Ian Ward said India's hesitation likely stemmed from England's fearsome reputation as...