"Live coverage: England vs India, men's Test cricket, Day 2"

96th over: England 312-7 (Smith 35, Carse 14) A change in bowling comes now, with Ravindra Jadeja taking over from Akash Deep, who might switch ends soon. Jadeja moves swiftly through his over as usual.

95th over: England 311-7 (Smith 35, Carse 13) Siraj continues his spell, which seems demanding. The batters collect four more singles.

A message arrives during play: *“Fridays should be light, shouldn’t they? I’m in a meeting that was supposed to wrap up by 11:30, but here we are, still going. Just ten minutes left—hurry up, the cricket’s on!”* The sender’s details remain discreet.

Drinks: A strong start for India

94th over: England 307-7 (Smith 33, Carse 11)
Bumrah takes a break, making way for Akash Deep, who hasn’t found his earlier rhythm. Five singles are taken, bringing the session to a pause.

England, aided by Jamie Smith, have shown some fight, but Bumrah has dominated, dismissing key batters with ease. His spell has been electrifying.

93rd over: England 302-7 (Smith 30, Carse 9) Smith keeps moving briskly, working Siraj for runs—two past gully, a couple off the hip, and another single. He’s reached 30 off 29 balls. Carse survives an appeal after being beaten by a sharp delivery.

92nd over: England 297-7 (Smith 25, Carse 9) Bumrah continues his search for another breakthrough. Smith punishes a loose ball for four, while Carse can’t capitalize on a full toss.

Discussions arise about the replacement ball, with observations that it sounds softer off the bat.

91st over: England 291-7 (Smith 20, Carse 8) Smith drives Siraj through the covers for four. Suddenly, India request a ball change, surprising many, given its condition. The replacement is approved, but confusion lingers as players exchange words with the umpire.