CRICKET: SECOND TEST

ENGLAND don't give a toss about the criticism coming their way after choosing to bowl first on a batter-friendly Edgbaston track.

- by MIKE WALTERS

Captain Ben Stokes escaped a hammering for asking India to bat first in the Headingley Test after England's incredible 371-run chase delivered him victory and a 1-0 lead in the series.

But opting to do the same this time, he was made to suffer as visiting captain Shubman Gill (inset) smashed a chanceless 269, the highest Test score by an Indian captain, while ushering his side to a monster 587 all out.

In reply, a frazzled England were left reeling at 25-3 in reply before reaching the close 510 runs in arrears on 77-3.

Nevertheless, assistant coach Jeetan Patel insisted they won't reflect on their choices after winning the toss.