The second Test of the ongoing five-match series between England and India will be played at Edgbaston. The eagerly-awaited game is scheduled to commence on Wednesday, July 2, at 3:30 pm (IST). England will go into this game holding a 1-0 lead.
The hosts emerged victorious by five wickets in the series opening Test at Headingley. They did so by chasing down a steep 371-run target with relative ease. Here are three players who could prove to be game-changers in the upcoming clash.
1) Ben Duckett

Duckett was rightfully awarded with the Player of the Match award after his contributions of 62 and 149 in England’s first and second innings, respectively. He played at a decent rate too, which meant the Indians could never really get into their rhythm.
Till now, it is quite an established fact that for England to have a positive start up top, it is important for Duckett to score runs. Duckett scoring would not only be beneficial for himself, but also for Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope to grow in confidence.
2) Harry Brook

Harry Brook is another of those players capable of taking the game away from the opposition. He showed his classic dynamism with the bat in England’s first innings. Brook was unfortunate to be dismissed one short of a ton.
A strangle down leg-side meant Brook had to depart for a golden duck in the second innings. The celebrations of the Indians showed just how much that wicket meant to them. Brook’s rate of run-scoring might be a cause of concern for the opposition.
3) Chris Woakes

Edgbaston is Chris Woakes’ home ground. Woakes has had a lot of fond memories representing Warwickshire there. It was his impressive control and the ability to swing the ball both ways which brought him to the forefront.
Fast-forward to now, he can well and truly be called an experienced player within the English side. Woakes contributed 38 invaluable runs in England’s first innings. However, he was not at his best with the ball. Woakes could be a threat to the Indians if he finds his wicket-taking mojo back.
Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.