
England's Jamie Smith Sets New Record for England Keeper in Test Cricket
Jamie Smith's phenomenal innings of 184 at Edgbaston has set a new record for an England keeper in Test cricket, eclipsing Alec Stewart's 173. Smith's century arrived off a blistering 80 balls, tied for the third fastest by an Englishman in Tests.
Partnership Breakdown
Smith's partnership with Harry Brook was a key factor in England's revival, with the two stitching a 303-run partnership for the sixth wicket in just two sessions. Brook contributed a classy 158, praising Smith's innings as "phenomenal".
Brook's Praise for Smith
"He tried to change the momentum back in our favour and it worked for a long period of time," Brook said. "It was awesome. It was so good to watch from the other end. I felt like he could hit four or six every ball. I was just trying to get him on strike."
India's Comeback
The partnership finally broke just after India took the second new ball, with Akash Deep striking with a sharp nip-backer that slipped past a weary Brook's defenses. India claimed the last five wickets for just 20 runs, carving out a commanding 180-run lead.
Brook's Disappointment
Brook admitted to being knackered, battling cramps in his right arm and requiring physio treatment mid-innings. He also revealed his hunger for a century this week, fueled by narrowly missing one at his home ground in Leeds.
Looking Ahead to Day 4
Brook embraced the Bazball spirit, despite India's commanding 244-run lead after three days. "I think everybody in the world knows that we're going to try and chase whatever they set us," he said. "We've obviously got a big task at hand tomorrow morning and we'll try and get a couple of wickets early on and try and put them under pressure."