England Need 399 to Beat India in Second Test

England faced a daunting task on day three of the second Test in Visakhapatnam, needing 399 runs to beat India.

Ben Duckett's departure for 28, part of a 50-run partnership with Zak Crawley, added to the challenge.

Crawley, standing at 29 not out, and the promoted Rehan Ahmed at nine, held the fort as England reached 67-1, requiring 332 more runs for an improbable victory.

Shubman Gill's classy century put India in a favorable position, despite early challenges. Gill survived multiple close calls before making 104, contributing to India's second-innings total of 255.

England, despite a first-innings deficit of 143, displayed resilience. James Anderson's brilliance, coupled with contributions from Tom Hartley and Rehan Ahmed, limited India, with the hosts losing their last six wickets for 44 runs.

England faces an uphill battle, needing to break records for a historic win. The required chase would be their highest in Test cricket, against India, and in the country.

Joe Root's injury added to England's concerns, but they have a history of overcoming challenges under captain Stokes.

Despite the intensity displayed by England, it may be too late, considering the formidable target and the pitch's favorable conditions for batting.

The 6-68 loss in the first innings could prove costly. The Bazballers' hopes rely on Crawley and Duckett's platform, but the task seems challenging.

Shubman Gill, previously inconsistent in Tests, redeemed himself with a determined century.

His partnership with Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel pushed India's lead. However, Gill's dismissal sparked a late fightback from England, restricting India to 4-18 in 10 overs.

As England faced 14 overs under floodlights, the young Rehan Ahmed showcased confidence, taking boundaries off Axar.

Despite their historic achievements under Stokes, England's chances in this Test appear slim. India's strong position and England's record-breaking requirement make victory a distant possibility.